NEARLY 300 runners brushed off their new year cobwebs, and dodged the floods, by taking part in the annual Woodcote 10k.
The event, organised by Pangbourne Rotary Club, was held on Sunday, and is known as ‘The tough one’.
Licensed by UK Athletics it attracted both club and non-affiliated runners, the Woodcote 10K is something of a challenge. It is an undulating, meandering course, along back roads, flanked by woods and farmland, making it a test for any runner.
Add in the cold and damp winter conditions, and it is a race to remember.
The event is the group’s biggest fundraisers of the year so far – but 2024 is young, after all.
In all, 278 runners lined up outside Woodcote Village Hall to take part.
First home was Cameron Weir from Abingdon Athletics Club, with a chip time of 35 minutes and 58 seconds.
Reading Roadrunners member Callum Evans was second with a chip time of 36 minutes and 47 seconds.
In third place was Lachlan Arthur, from Oxford University, who ran the course in 37:33.
The first woman home was Christine Halls, with a chip time of 40:10.
Reading Roadrunner Kate Williams was next, with a chip time of 40:44, then Lara Tolson at 41:36.
Brian Davies, president of Pangbourne Rotary, was delighted with how the day had gone.
“Conditions were cold but it stayed dry in this event which has been held for over 40 years,” he said.
“An estimated £3,600 pounds was raised for charity, the principal beneficiary being Parkinson’s UK, with the remainder going to Rotary’s charity fund to support local causes.
“Thanks to Warmingham Estate Agents for their sponsorship.”
The group’s next event will be an art exhibition in April. This will be held in Pangbourne Village Hall over a weekend.
They will also hold their annual dragon boat racing in Pangbourne Meadows in June.
They meet every Monday from 7.30pm at 41 High Street, Theale.
For more details, log on to: pangbournerotary.org.uk
