NEWS ITEM SUBMITTED
 Sevenoaks Rotary 10k Run & 2k Fun Run
At last the weather gods smiled on us, and we enjoyed a sunny day that felt like the first day of Summer. Conditions were soft but generally ideal for the 3rd running of this event, which has become a popular and major event on the runners' circuit.
There were almost 800 entries, an increase of 60% over last year and the record field was greeted by glorious sunshine. This year we had even more Marshalls and Course signage to ensure that everything ran smoothly. Spirits were high and the atmosphere cheerful. Large numbers of spectators watched the race from the many vantage points in the Park.
 Entries were received from Leeds, Nottingham and all over Southern England, a tribute to the Event marketing and reputation. We were honoured to have present, 78 year old Sir Christopher Chataway, who ran as pacemaker in the first 4 minute mile with Sir Roger Bannister and then became 5000 metre and 3 mile World Record holder. He obviously retains his talent and fitness, finishing in the first half of the entire field in just over 50 minutes.
 Robert Sackville West, Lord Sackville kindly came along with his family to talk to spectators and competitors and he welcomed them all before starting both the 10k and the 2k races.
Prizes were presented by Sir Christopher Chataway and current Rotary President, the well known local personality Bob Ogley.
First race to finish was the 2k Fun Run, won by 13 years old Alistair Bishop from Sevenoaks, 2nd was 10 years old Leigh Robertson, and 3rd was 9 years old James Puxty. Excellent results from a record field of over 60 runners, including many Mums and Dads who couldn't quite keep up with the youngsters.
Winner of the 10k this year was Sam Coombes of Dartford Harriers in a new record time of 33.13 minutes, 2nd was James Buchanan of Croydon Harriers who was 1 minute 14 seconds behind with Mark Clayton of Beckenham Running Club a further 2 minutes away in 3rd place. 4th was Luke Armitage of Kent AC a further 20 seconds back.
First lady was Maria Heslop from Tonbridge, in the fast time of 40 minutes 39 seconds, with 17 year old Jennifer Hamer from Blackheath & Bromley Harriers AC, 1 minute back in 2nd place and Claudia Harrison from London, was 3rd lady a further 24 seconds behind. Kerry Holland from Southend on Sea was 4th.
The Mens' and the Ladies' Team prizes were won by Beckenham Running Club.
The Marshalls around the Entry area and on the Course, who were mainly Sevenoaks Rotarians and friends including 4 helpers from the Sevenoaks Volunteer Bureau and 7 Explorer Scouts and leaders from Kemsing, all did an efficient job. Race Chairman Brian Brauns and Race Director John Walker supported by a few stalwarts have devoted a massive amount of time and effort to make the event a great success. They were amply rewarded by the enormous turn out.
Principle beneficiaries of the event this year are Kent Air Ambulance and Chipstead Lake Cheshire Home. It is hoped that the Run will show a surplus of approx. £7,000, all for charity.
Main Sponsors were Knocker & Foskett, and Ibbett Moseley for the 3rd successive year, as well as Davis Garage who provided field transport and manpower. Main prizes were donated by Boots of Sevenoaks, support facilities from Sencio at the Sevenoaks Leisure Centre and results services from Sevenoaks Computer Shop. Healthy energy bananas were kindly provided by Dole Fresh UK of Dartford. There were none left at the end!
The essential Website www.sevenoaksrotary10k.co.uk and computer produced address labelling was provided and maintained by John Hubbard of Otford.net.
Join us next year on Sunday, 14th March 2010. |
7oaks.info
Sevenoaks News
Vine Magazine
Community Cycle ride 
12 Men In Trunks
