What a cracking day again for the annual Good Friday relay races, at Newburn Business Park, hosted by Elswick Harriers. The weather always seems to come good for this event and this year was no exception. Perfect race conditions: The sun was shining, hardly any wind, flat dry course. No excuses really and the record turnout from Ponteland certainly made the most of it with a number of PBs and all round top performances.

25 strong we were this year. 4 men’s teams and 3 women’s. It was a fantastic turnout and further proof of how far the club has come in recent years to have that strength in depth.  We caused quite an obstruction on the street corner where we chose to ‘loiter’. It’s a wonder we didn’t get moved on!

Almost all were lured into a fast start with the slight downhill and the quality of athletes around.  Some impressive splits for the first 1K meant a punishing last mile or so and a case of ‘hanging on’ for the 2.2m finish line.  That said there were still some impressive sprint finishes off that last bend – Mr Ward’s being up there with the best. Did he pip that other guy? Could have went to a photo!

Great performances all round from the girls, inspired by Laura Weightman & co and buoyed by the very loud posse on the street corner.  The boys then took up the mantel well with a great showing. Special mentions go to Finlay, who showed our youth policy is alive and kicking and put in a great time averaging 6.29 per mile.  Have to mention Mark Lyon, who enjoyed his first lap so much he went round again, standing in for the pillock who in future will be getting taxis home from the pub rather than using it extra training! Thanks Mark.  And of course, to the crack squad of Hallisey, Lyon, Leiper and Hoyle, who posted a scintillating average time of 5.31 per mile – confirming that Ponteland runners have definitely arrived and are a force to be reckoned with!

Thanks to Matty Bell for organising.

Fish & Chips well earned all round.  Roll on next good Friday!