‘Determination and enthusiasm’ top Thame 10k

THE bright and breezy weather on Sunday, June 25, reflected the determined and enthusiastic mood of the Thame 10K runners of 2017, who came in their masses to take part in Thame’s well-known annual challenge. The race limit of 1000 is normally full by early June which only highlights the popularity of this town event and added to the buzzing atmosphere.

The jubilant JHS Team – Image courtesy of @TVAirAmb

The race started and finished at Lord Williams’s Upper school playing fields, passed through the town centre and back along the Phoenix Trail. After completing the 10K, the competitors received a medal in recognition of their accomplishment, as well as a T-Shirt and a goody bag as mementos of the race. These were handed out by Kate from CPM, assisted by Howard Papworth (Race Director) and Rod Lavers (Race Secretary) from Thame Runners.

The feedback surrounding the race was nothing but positive; one quote from Facebook read that the race was really enjoyable, adding: “Great course, especially if you aren’t a hill fan! A very friendly atmosphere throughout and a massive thank you to the marshals & the TVAA volunteers with the hosepipe and sponges!”

Gratitude towards all the helpers and sponsors was prominent throughout the comments. Thame Runners’ spokesperson, Rod Lavers, said on Facebook: ” I would also like to offer my grateful thanks to our brilliant army of marshals and helpers who have once again come up trumps and provided our running guests yesterday morning with a fantastic experience. A number of favourable comments have been posted to the Thame 10k Facebook page which is always very pleasing to get such positive feedback.

“I must also mention the incredible team of helpers at the “race village” who cleared the field in record breaking time and allowed everyone to attend the post-race barbecue at a very decent hour. Well done to Bruce ‘Mr Barby’ Lawton who tossed the burgers, sausages and chicken drumsticks with great aplomb, ably assisted by Harry Turner and my wife Sue. What a great day it was, but I was more than pleased to hit my bed last night after a tiring day. Here’s to 2018!!”

Fastest woman in the Thame 10K 2017, Emma Houchell

The Results

For the third time in four years, James Bolton of the Woodstock Harriers came first – over 90 seconds ahead of the second finisher in an extraordinary time of 33.00. The fastest female in the race was Emma Houchell with a time of 36:34 making her 12th in the race overall. The first male Thame resident to finish was Kristian Williams, and the first female Thame resident was Emma Way.

A team from John Hampden School in Thame, including the head teacher, Paul Hankey (time: 01:18:01) ran to raise funds for the Air Ambulance, in memory of four year-old Barnaby Cork.  FULL RACE RESULTS HERE

It seems that the race wouldn’t be what it is without the dedication of the marshals, the encouragement of the family members who line the race course, and the enthusiasm of the runners themselves who keep the race going year after year.

SOURCE: Contributed by Gabby Smith