Leeds Half Marathon 2016

A scorching hot day welcomed the runners at the Leeds Half marathon, and the heat would take it’s toll on many and the water stations and hose’s on route were even more welcome than ever.

It is the same route as last year so the first half is hilly, a gentle climb up Meanwood road before the tough Stonegate road  leading onto the ring road.  Once at the top of this most of the 2nd half is downhill and flat, but Kirkstall road seems to go on for miles.

43 Harriers (22 men and 21 ladies) entered this which is round 3 of the club road championship and also counts as a round of the club competitor championship.

1st home in an excellent 14th overall was Liam O’Brien in 1.19.20.  Liam has started the year very strongly and will take some beating in the 1st division, even though he wasn’t happy today with stomach cramps affecting him.

2nd home and 1st in the premier league was Matthew Pinnock who had an excellent run to claim a PB in 24th at 1.20.54.  Mike Gallagher was next home in 1.25.51 only 2 seconds ahead of Chris Smith.  Top 2nd division points went to Pompeo Costantino with a strong 1.27.45.

In the ladies Helen Close was 1st Harrier home in 1.46.04 only 8 seconds ahead of Lucy Rider who in turn was only 18 seconds ahead of Hannah Marshall.  It was a close battle and all 3 scored strongly in the 1st division.

Next home and scoring top premier division points was Laura Cummings in 1.49.26 and then it was new Hyde Park Harrier Maika Ohno in 1.52.37 and claiming top points in the 2nd division.

Even in the heat there was some very impressive performances and everyone who took part should be proud of there performance.