A group of Harriers decided to hold a training session with a difference on Saturday 17th December. In icy conditions, they were attempting to beat the Woman’s Marathon World Record, held by Paula Radcliffe, (2.15.25) with a marathon relay which meant an running an average time of 77 seconds per lap for ALL 105.5 laps needed to complete the 26 mile 385 yard distance!
A total of 16 athletes took part in the event: Tabatha Walford, Izzy Cara, Danielle Gaskell (U13), Jack Hope, Josh Cara, Ethan & Lauren Mehmet, Maisie Green, Abigail Coleman, Fran Ashworth, Gemma Vaughan (U15), and Josh Coles, Matt Stewart and Kayli Walford (U17). Additional help was kindly provided when an injury to Abigail left us short of cover, so Niamh Bailey and Lorna Milne completed some laps.
In terms of the Woman’s Marathon World Record attempt, the group managed to record a time of 2hours, 5 minutes, and 57 seconds, comfortably beating Paula's world record by 9 minutes and nearly managing to beat the men’s world record (2 hours, 3 minutes), which was a fantastic achievement. The Group averaged just over 71 seconds per lap or 4 and a half minutes for each mile over the 105 .5 lap/ 26 mile 385 yard distance (target was 77 seconds per lap), the fastest time ever for a Harrier!?
The Woman’s world record holder, Paula Radcliffe, Tweeted details of the event to her 35,000 followers which was very kind, and much appreciated! We also had many parents turn up as spectators and to offer support, and a fund raising raffle was also held. On the fund raising side, although the final amounts are not yet totalled, I am confident over £800 will have be raised from sponsorship & raffle for the club which is a great effort.
By the end of the session I think the group had a far greater appreciation on just how magnificent Paula’s time is, as all had to work very hard to achieve this time! Much fun, (and pain) was had by all who ran, but for their efforts they were rewarded with Pizza after the event courtesy of their coach!
Thanks to all who took part and for the support of the parents/ sponsors.