When looking back to early February and the Freethorpe Ten, the first race in this year’s series, it is scary to see just how quickly time has passed.
However, what a brilliant 14 race tournament it has been, comprising of distances from 5K up to 20 miles.
When first taking on the sponsorship of the Grand Prix Series in 2018, we said we would do our best to not only be good sponsors, but also get involved and try to bring more than just sponsorship money to the table.
In other words, by way of trying to increase the awareness of the series whilst adding some extra glamour to it all via social media and other promotions such as our F1 type leaderboard through all the categories.
The first couple of years were very good as we constantly looked for new ideas and ways to lend even more support, but then of course come 2020 Covid struck which held things up somewhat.
Needless to say, 2021 was a year of just being so very happy what with seeing everyone out there racing regularly again.
Then last year (2022) we introduced Sportlink TV to film at each race with Mark Armstrong fronting it and what a great job he did. Unfortunately, he was not able to continue his role as front man this year, but what a superb replacement in Radio Norfolk’s Richard Hancock.
And just like Mark, not only a fantastic presenter, but excellent runner too, whilst having ran in all but two of the races this year having achieved a PB in each of them.
When you consider that he is on site doing his stuff with Aaron Protheroe two to three hours beforehand, setting up and doing pre-race interviews, it makes it even more impressive. Oh, and not forgetting the fact that he runs with a GoPro camera strapped to his head as well.
Anway, I do so very much hope that all involved with Norfolk Road Running are pleased with our efforts as sponsor because we are so very pleased with the efforts of everyone involved be it the clubs, runners, officials, helpers/volunteers and of course the very hard-working Pat Brightman and Andrew Lane.
I must also mention our events manager Adrian Grand (Action Adie) who just like Richard and Aaron has also been on site very early for each of the races this year setting up the Sportlink stand ready to greet runners upon their arrival. Needless to say, a shout out for all other members of staff who have been there helping him out.
Adie will be there bright and early this Sunday morning too but not for organising the Sportlink stand. This time he is running himself and from what I have heard, in a pair of carbon plated race shoes. So, if you see him whizzing past you, you will know why.
Richard and Aaron will also be there, of course, for what will be the final race film for this year. If you see them coming towards you with a camera and microphone in hand, be ready to say a few words.
All the very best to everyone taking part and of course to Bure Valley Harriers, the race organisers.
Pace makes for the perfect race and please do watch and like our post-race film showing on YouTube, once posted, which I would guess will be Monday or Tuesday evening. Watch out for the competition too with the chance to win a free pair of shoes from New Balance who have kindly donated some vouchers.
For anyone who might still like to come along to the GP Awards Evening on Friday, November 17, check out this link as soon as possible as there are only a few places left.
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