McLeod cruises to victory
Dec 27 2008 The Journal
RYAN McLeod repeated his 2007 victory in the annual Woodlawn Christmas Pudding Run at Whitley Bay, writes LES VENMORE.
A record field of 1,000 runners took part in the Boxing Day event, in aid of the Woodlawn School.
In cold and dry conditions, the Tipton Harrier was content to follow early leader Lewis Timmins, of Morpeth, before pulling away after the opening mile. The margin of victory was 11 seconds, with another Morpeth Harrier, Mark Brown, finishing third.
Schools Cross Country international Kate Avery, of Shildon, passed 2007 winner Justina Heslop, of Clapham, at the halfway point in the women’s race, coming home 12 seconds ahead of her rival. Avery finished in an excellent 13th position overall.
Although the course was slightly adjusted from previous years, the top times compared well with course records.
Meanwhile, Ripon Road Runners host the annual Jolly Holly Jog 10km from the cricket club, tomorrow (11.15am start).
WOODLAWN CHRISTMAS PUDDING RUN
Men: 1 R McLeod (Tipt) 15:12; 2 L Timmins (Morp) 15:23; 3 M Brown (Morp) 15:42; 4 M Dawson (NSP) 16:00; 5 D Kirkland (Aln) 16:05; 6 T Calder (Gate, U20) 16:14; 7 P Walker (Morp, M40) 16:24; 8 T Brannon (NSP, M40) 16:30; 9 A Woodward (NSP) 16:49; 10 C Paton (Gate) 16:53; 11 K Flannery (Gate) 16:58; 12 P Waterston (Morp, M40) 17:00.
Women: 1 K Avery (Shil, U17) 17:02; 2 J Heslop (Clap) 17:14; 3 D Nagazina (Morp) 18:35; 4 S Bell (Gate, U17) 18:42; 5 L Hayes (unatt, W35) 20:16; 6 V Hindson (Walls) 20:46; 7 J Clark (Morp) 21:16; 8 G Wallett (NSP, U15) 21:21
