Southwell Running Club
Southwell Summer Scamper
This weekend saw the inaugural Southwell Summer Scamper 10K, which raised money for The Reach Charity. The event was the idea of SRC member Carol Hayward, who, with the help of Penny Durance, Pam Dutton, Lauren Birkbeck, Michelle Hall, Helen Dove, Stephen Tomlinson, Nigel Whitmore and Stewart Lenton, brought it to life over the past eight months.
The day began with perfect running weather. Runners and spectators gathered at Race HQ at Southwell Rugby Club, and with Lee Mulraney on the microphone, the atmosphere quickly built. Reach Charity was also represented, with several team members taking part. Just before 9:30, after Carol’s race briefing, Richard Whitehead offered words of encouragement and counted runners down to the start. The excitement was clear as participants looped around the field before heading up Park Lane towards Brackenhurst campus.
For many, this was their first 10K, while more experienced runners were equally excited to take part in a new event. Club chairman Ian Haigh led the field on the lead bike, and Lorain Fozzard served as tail runner to ensure everyone returned safely. The route took runners through the university grounds and onto the trails at Gypsy Lane and Sheepwalk Close before looping back along Brackenhurst Lane to finish on the rugby field.
As soon as the runners had left the field, the children’s fun runs got under way under the capable guidance of Lauren Birkbeck. Three age groups took part: ages 3–4, 5–6 and 7–8. The children thoroughly enjoyed the experience and were presented with medals at the finish line by Richard Whitehead, Reach members and a team from Southwell Lions.
Every runner completed the course to loud cheers from the crowd. They were soon proudly wearing their Southwell-themed medals. Leigh Stubbs finished first in an impressive 36:36, followed closely by Ted Ingle in 36:52 and Geoffry Gregory in 36:53. The first female finisher was Carolyn Hay in 39:47, followed by Maisie Ingle in 43:49 and Darcie Wasnidge in 43:55.
Men’s age-category prizes went to Martyn Fickling (MV40), Matthew Daly (MS), Paul Davies (MV50), Andy Welshman (MV60) and Peter Davis (MV70).
Women’s age-category prizes were awarded to Maja Szramowska (FS), Fiona Galick (FV35), Gillian Newbould (FV45), Angie Cochrane (FV55) and Manju Tosar (FV65).
Carol Hayward said the feedback had been fantastic, with many runners describing it as the best organised event they had attended. They praised the scenic course, the supportive marshals at every corner and the great atmosphere at both the start and finish. Tea, coffee and home-made cakes were enjoyed throughout the day, and the club thanked everyone who baked and served in the marquee.
Carol added: ‘This became a wonderful community event, with trophy sponsorship from UPC Group and medal sponsorship from Clegg Group, Southwell Lions and Kirkland and Lane.
We also received fantastic support from NTU Brackenhurst Campus and Southwell Rugby Club, as well as runners from across the town, including Southwell Medical Centre.’
After such a successful debut, the event looks set to return next year.