ATHLETICS - Stratford AC host Cotswold Hilly 100 - The Stratford Observer

ATHLETICS - Stratford AC host Cotswold Hilly 100

Stratford Editorial 18th May, 2022   0

STRATFORD AC hosted the Cotswold Hilly 100 Race last weekend with all profits going to charity.

The race, which has run for more than 25 years, encompasses clubs from all over the area and is a 100-mile road relay divided into 10 legs each approximately 10 miles in length.

Stratford finished second in the Mens race in 10 hours 19 minutes 41 seconds behind Kenilworth (10:15:29) whilst the Ladies race was won by Spa Striders and Northbrook won the Mixed Team race.

Alex Adams, who ran the first leg for Stratford, said: “Great experience for my first Hilly 100 and what a team to do it with. Great support and brilliant performance all round. Absolutely loved it and will be back to get revenge on Kenilworth next year.”




This year, 36 teams competed in the event including four from Stratford with the Mens A team and thee Mixed Teams all taking to the road.

The race began at the American Fountain in Stratford before finishing at Stratford Sports Club with the route taking place mainly on minor roads and meandering through the Cotswolds.


Stratford’s Mens team set off at 7am and Adams produced an outstanding first leg through Welford to hand over to Ben Kruze in 54 mins 53 secs.

Kruze ran a quality second leg, which included over 1,000 feet of climbing, in 54 mins 39 secs – some 14 mins ahead of the second placed runner.

Kenilworth showed their strength to claim the lead which passed back and forth between the two clubs throughout the race before eventually taking victory.

Many new runners took on the challenge of a leg in the Mixed Team race and crossed the line to huge applause as teams gathered to support their final runner at the finish.

Stratford’s Pip Bell said: “I had only vaguely heard about the Hilly 100. It sounded like a very daunting event and the word ‘Hilly’ was enough to make me think I should wait a couple of years before trying it out.

“However, I took the plunge and decided to give it a go this year. I loved every hilly minute of it! The support from SAC, other clubs, fellow team members and our support crew was amazing!”

Advertising

Advertise with the Stratford Observer to reach your audience

Buy Photos

Buy photos online from the Stratford Observer newspaper.

Recruitment

Find a career you'll love with our free career finder website.

Printing

We can provide all of your printing needs at competitive rates.