Newark Half Marathon

Matthew Williamson runs a strong first half marathon

Sunday 14th August saw the return of the Newark Half Marathon after a five year absence. Starting in Devon and Sconce Park, runners headed out into the usually sleepy, meandering country lanes. Well organised and supported by charity partner, Beaumond House and the town's four running clubs, the event saw locals lining the route which included sites of some of the bloodiest civil battles in our Country's history, this time armed with high fives, jelly babies and even homemade chocolate brownies to sustain this weekend's warriors.

Among the 800 participants to brave the battle were Grantham Running Club Members. Paul Davis narrowly missing out on a personal best, steaming home in an impressive time of 1:34:50, his second half distance in seven days. Second home was half marathon debutant Matthew Williamson with an incredible 1:36:00, finishing 4th in his U23 age category. First GRC lady to cross the line was new recruit, SJ Willis who ran a surprisingly strong race on the flatter course and achieved a personal best of 1:47:26, her furthest distance since the London Marathon in April this year. Close on SJ's heels was Neil Emerson, coming in at 1:49:35 and Sinead McDonnell who cracked the sub 2 hour mark with a commendable 1:58:46. First timer, Michelle Allbones, who returned to running after three weeks on the bench with a calf tear, arrived at the finish to applause from supporters and fellow club members after 2:27:47 of incredibly determined running.