Lymm 5k - by Garry Baines

In hot and humid conditions, 26 members competed in the undulating Lymm 5k on Saturday in a competitive field.

Highlight of the day came when the Men collected the Team Prize. Leading them home was Paul Mannion in 16:41, crossing the line 4th overall and taking the V40 prize.

Simon Ford was 2nd A&T finisher in 17:53 with Shaun Moran and Peter Chan enjoying a close tussle in 3rd and 4th. Shaun got the nod by 2 seconds on this occasion with 18:07 and the secured the V50 award.

Strong performances followed from Mark Riches 18:34, Gary Stevens 18:53, Alan Hilton 19:29 and Terry Gardiner 19:40, the latter collecting a PB in the process.

Alan Webb 21:14, Steve Foster 21:27 and Garry Baines 22:00 all finished within sight of each other, whilst Ray Taylor 22:46 and Ian Hamilton 23:07 suffered in the demanding conditions.

Dave Crowe 23:45, still having hamstring problems, and Glyn Thomson 23:48 enjoyed a close contest, whilst Paul Basnett fought hard for his 25:34 time.

The Ladies Team finished in a creditable 3rd place. Josey Maley led the way finishing 4th overall in 19:44, just missing out on adding to her wine collection. Brenda Wane 22:28 and Carole Baines 23:09 made up the team but there was strong support from Suzanne Gregory 23:41 and Michaela Shaw on her way back in 24:10.

Lyndsey Carter 25:25 ran a strong race on her comeback from injury and Jo Riches 25:37, made a rare appearance to push her all the way. Close on her heels was Michelle Fuller with 25:59.

Emma Carter and 31:53 and Clare Unsworth 32:10 dug in well and finished strongly.

Several notable performances came in the fun run from some of the A&T offspring, including Cerys Baines, Joseph Wane and Mikey and Luke Hilton.

There then followed an impromptu football match in which all managed to avoid injury, despite the close attentions of Josey “bite your legs” Maley. Several players showed some pace and passion, contrary to those who “competed” in the match 24 hours later.