It’s been an action-packed few days for the endurance athletes of WNAC, as they braved the scorching late summer sun to give it their all in various running events. The weekend was particularly exciting, with the highly anticipated Run Norwich 10k taking center stage. Thousands of runners, including some of WNAC’s own, took to the streets of Norwich, determined to conquer the city’s challenging hills and soak up the electric atmosphere provided by the cheering crowds. Among them was Oliver Foxwell, who delivered an outstanding performance, completing the 10k in an impressive 39:17 – a time that’s sure to turn heads. Not far behind was Olivia Ord, who also tackled the heat and hills with remarkable grit, finishing with a commendable time of 43:37.
As the athletes navigated the demanding course, the supporters lining the streets were treated to a spectacle of determination and endurance. The Run Norwich 10k has become a beloved local event, and it’s easy to see why – the combination of a scenic route, enthusiastic crowds, and a sense of community makes it a truly special experience for all involved. Meanwhile, further north, WNAC’s chairman, Mark Garrett, was representing the club at the prestigious Great North Run in Newcastle. This iconic half-marathon is renowned for its grueling inclines and incredible spectator support, with tens of thousands of runners and spectators coming together to create an unforgettable atmosphere. Garrett rose to the challenge, embracing the heat and hills as he made his way through the 13.1-mile course, ultimately crossing the finish line with a time of 1:49. It’s a testament to his dedication and perseverance that he was able to perform so well in such a high-profile event.
The weekend wasn’t just about long-distance running, however – some of WNAC’s athletes opted for shorter, faster events that still packed a punch. Olivia Ord, for example, took part in the unique Thorpe Park 5k, a thrilling race that weaves through the grounds of the popular Surrey theme park. With rollercoasters towering above, Ord delivered a scintillating performance, blitzing the course in a rapid 20:32 and claiming victory in the girls’ under-15 category. This achievement is all the more impressive considering the fast-paced nature of the event, which requires a combination of speed, agility, and tactical awareness. It’s clear that Ord has a bright future ahead of her in the world of athletics.
Away from the shorter distances, WNAC’s wheelchair athlete, Susi Rogers-Hartley, was putting her endurance to the test in the Sawtry 10-mile race. This demanding event presented a unique set of challenges, including a total elevation of 410ft along the ten-mile course. Rogers-Hartley demonstrated her remarkable resilience, battling both the heat and the hills to finish with a time of 1:50:29. It’s an outstanding achievement that showcases her strength, determination, and unyielding commitment to her sport. Meanwhile, Craig Roberts was taking on the London half-marathon, a 13.1-mile test of speed and endurance that winds its way through the heart of the city. Roberts produced a cracking run, finishing with a time of 1:43:49 that’s sure to leave him feeling proud and motivated for future events.
As the dust settles on another busy weekend of racing, it’s clear that WNAC’s athletes have been pushing themselves to new heights. Whether tackling the short, sharp shock of a 5k or the longer, more strategic challenge of a half-marathon, each individual has demonstrated a fierce dedication to their craft. From the sun-drenched streets of Norwich to the iconic course of the Great North Run, these athletes have given it their all, inspiring their fellow competitors and the supporters who cheer them on. As the summer begins to draw to a close, it’s an exciting time to be part of the WNAC community, with a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose that extends far beyond the finish line.
As we look back on the weekend’s events, it’s the personal stories and achievements that truly shine through. There’s Oliver Foxwell, who ran a blistering 10k in under 40 minutes; Olivia Ord, who dominated the girls’ under-15 category at Thorpe Park; and Mark Garrett, who tackled the Great North Run with characteristic grit and determination. Each of these athletes, along with their fellow competitors, has proven that with hard work, perseverance, and a passion for their sport, anything is possible. As the WNAC community looks to the future, one thing is certain – the next chapter in their journey will be filled with excitement, challenge, and a shared commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. With their sights set firmly on the horizon, these athletes will continue to inspire and motivate each other, driving themselves to new heights and forging memories that will last a lifetime.
