Rudolph’s Romp 2009

Over 400 runners and walkers set off from Brantingham village last Saturday to compete in the annual Rudolph’s Romp 24-mile challenge event.  They were rewarded with a glorious sunny day, sightings of red kites and lots of mud.

Eighteen members of Beverley Athletic Club rose to the challenge, some veteran Rompers and others taking part for the first time.  Whilst some of them treated the event as a race, others enjoyed a more leisurely day out in the countryside.

Jonathan Leskiewicz was the first Beverley runner to finish.  He was tenth overall in an excellent time of 3.22.

For Ian Boardley, Rudolph’s Romp was the first activity of his stag weekend.  Accompanied by his father, best man and several friends, he was in a great hurry to get back for more traditional and less energetic activities with the lads.  Finishing in 3.23 he was home in time for lunch and before some people had reached the half-way point!

The finishing times for Leskiewicz and Boardley might suggest a fast run over a flat East Yorkshire landscape but this is far from the truth.  Rudolph’s Romp follows a circular and mainly off-road route from Brantingham with some serious climbs around South Cave and Newbald.  With a good mix of hill, dale and woodland, the route between checkpoints offers all participants a challenging day out in picturesque countryside.

The first man to finish was Matthew Hayes in 2 hours 56 and the first lady was Donna Hodgson in 3.48.

The event was organised by members of the East Yorkshire branch of the Long Distance Walkers’ Association (EYLDWA), who also provided marshals and refreshments en route.  Proceeds from the race amounted to almost £2000 and will be donated to Yorkshire Air Ambulance and England and Wales Mountain Rescue.

The next EYLWDA event is the Filey Flyer on 16 January.  Details available from www.lwda.org.uk

Beverley AC finishing times:
Jonathan Leskiewicz 3hours 22 minutes; Ian Boardley 3.23; Steve Jackson 3.41; Tony Hunter 3.43; Pete Watkinson 4.12; Andy Johnson 4.19; Tim Simpson 4.20; Mike Abbotts 4.57; Brian Richardson 5.26; David Williams 5.29; John Boardley 6.53; Pete McNally 6.09; Ivor Roberts 6.34; Jacqui Dickinson 6.58; Kay Farrow 6.58; Alex Guymer 8.17; Kate Guymer 8.18; Margaret Richardson 8.33.

Reported by Kay Farrow, Beverley AC

HU17.net Picture Gallery: Click on the thumbnail picture below to enlarge the image to full size

HU17.net Picture Gallery: Click on the thumbnail picture below to enlarge the image to full size