GCR's Centenary Run gets public involved for first time

The challenging 20.20km course, marking Welwyn Garden City’s centenary, attracted around 180 participants, half of whom were club members.

The route, starting at Stanborough Park and circling the town, proved difficult to navigate, with several runners getting lost despite orange signs showing the way.

One notably lost participant was found by search party member James Aitchinson, after adding an extra 12 kilometres to his run.

Centenary leaders Harvey, Gavin, Baylis, Hodson, Moye (Image: Richard Underwood)

Others, like Clare Wildey, intentionally added more distance for marathon training.

Every finisher received a unique medal featuring a satellite image of the town.

Chris Baylis set the fastest time, completing the course in under an hour and a half.

He was closely followed by Peter Harvey; Peter Moye from Stevenage Striders was third.

Cenetnary Run trio (Image: Keith Fenwick PHOTOGRAPHY)

Aine Glynn, a new Garden City Runner from Ireland, was the first woman to finish, completing the run in an hour and 45 minutes.

The event, though not a race, maintained a competitive edge, with participants enjoying a blend of camaraderie and challenge.

The organisers expressed their gratitude to the volunteers and GLL for their support in making the Centenary Run a success.

Centernary Run Dom (Image: Keith Fenwick PHOTOGRAPHY)

Meanwhile, in Tywyn, Lee Chapman competed in the "Race the Train" event, completing the Rotary Challenge for the first time after 11 years.

Despite being beaten by the train, Chapman finished in two hours and 12 minutes, enjoying the challenging and well-supported course.

In other running news, five Garden City Runners travelled around the M25 to participate in the Upton Court Parkrun.

John McDowall and Richard Somerset placed 9th and 10th respectively, while Barbara Kubis, Brian Robbins, and Peter Lapthorne also secured respectable positions.

Centenary Run Nick (Image: Keith Fenwick PHOTOGRAPHY)

Willow Gibson marked a significant milestone by completing her 100th different parkrun location at Linford Wood Parkrun.

The event fell exactly 10 years after her first parkrun, adding extra significance to the occasion.

Andy and Chris (Image: Rich Underwood)

In total, over 130 Garden City Runner members participated in 39 different parkruns, achieving a range of personal bests and milestones.

The club also put out a call for marshals for the Hatfield 5k Series, which will take place at Affinity Water HQ on August 26, September 2, and September 9.

Marshals are needed from 6pm for the races starting at 7.30pm.