This low key Friday evening race, held on the Salt Ayre cycle track at Lancaster, was once again a qualifying race for Preston Harriers’ road running championships, and Harriers turned out in force, eager to lay down a mark and gain early season points. On a still, slightly damp evening, times were fast and most athletes were happy with their performance. Two leaders (Nathan Postill of Border Harriers and Ben Riddall of Salford) went away from the start and had a fierce battle before Postill claimed the win in 15 minutes 11 seconds. Harriers’ Luke Suffolk hung onto the chasing group for most of the race and was rewarded with 7th place in 15:51, removing 23 seconds from his previous best. Next Harrier to finish was Jason Parker, who was 1st MV45 in 17:27 and he was closely followed by Steve Hallas (1st MV50 in 17:41). Alex Venables (18:04), David Watson (18:11, 1st MV55) and Paul Ratan (18:29) were followed by Dougie Potter in 19:10. Alan Metcalf moved through the field well after a steady start to finish in 21:02 (1st MV60). Neil McDonald (20:36), Kevin Hesketh (22:02) and Andrew Tranter (23:11) also ran. Nicola Sutton was the first female Harrier in 18:26. Next was Charlotte Gregory (20:35) and Cathy Flitcroft, who was delighted with her time of 21:20. Julie Tyrer (25:29), Sue Wickham (28:12) and Angela Tranter (30:36) completed the Harriers team.
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