As usual, this Grand Prix event proved very popular with our members.  The 22nd March showed excellent running conditions weather wise, staying dry and cool.  This was the first year of the new course for Stafford Half, heading south out of the town centre, through some winding residential roads, then heading north around the perimeter of Stafford anticlockwise through some semi rural roads, before heading back into the centre from the north.  The course was fairly flat, with the main incline occurring at mile 10, before a comfortable down hill (or not so comfortable by this point!) path back to the finish line. Our member Cliff describes the route well.

“In my view, a fairly swift route with a few chicanes thrown in to slow proceedings.  Undulating, but without the steep climb up Tixall Hill at six miles.”

Steve Rivers led the field for Lichfield, with an amazing time of 1:19, with John Doyle following at 1:21.  Ed Coppinger put in an excellent effort “loafing” (his words!)  at 1.27!   Sarah Dauncey had a victorious return to racing with a brilliant time of 1:30 and was the first LRC lady home.

Well done to everyone who took part!

Results can be found here:http://www.staffordbc.gov.uk/halfmarathon