In the women’s race, Leigh James of London Heathside took an early lead and successfully defended her title from last year, taking half a minute off her previous best to finish in 31:08. Vicky Carter of Serpentine RC crossed the line exactly half a minute later, slicing a similar chunk off her previous best. ESM veteran Fiona Kennedy, more normally engaged in organising the race, took third place in a season’s best of 32:02.
London Heathside took team honours in both the men’s and the women’s race. Race sponsors Prince Evans put out a strong men’s team, with Lee Davis, brother Jonathan and colleague John Soper finishing seventh out of the thirteen men’s teams. Other local organisations fielding teams included Energize Fitness and St Thomas’ Church in Hanwell.
The field of 315 entries and 247 finishers was the largest in the history of the race. As usual, runners of all ages and abilities took part, and half the field consisted of independent runners not associated with a running club. However, there was strong representation from the running fraternity too: 47 different clubs were represented, the largest squads coming from London Heathside, Ealing Southall & Middlesex and Ealing Eagles. The local triathlon club ESC D3 was also out in force.
The 5 mile race was followed by a 2km Fun Run for Under 15’s, participants ranging from 6 to 14 years of age. The first home was 13 year old ESM runner Karolis Narvilas, closely followed by 14 year old Ben Farmer.
Thanks are due to Race Director Bob Stanbrook, along with the army of officials, marshals and other volunteers who helped the race run smoothly. We have already had lots of positive feedback from participants, as well as some great ideas for making the race even better next year.
Updated results from the Perivale 5 (comprising spelling corrections and one change of club affiliation) are here: P5 results 2012. Updated team results (comprising one change of club affiliation) are here: P5 results (teams) 2012. Under 15s Fun Run results here: Fun Run results 2012