Mercia Fell Runners Club

The “Batch” is such a beautiful valley in the Long Mynd, and at the start of the Summer warmer weather, it never fails to be a popular run of the summer series. 121 runners.

Duncan Birtwistle from Telford AC came in 1st in a fast time of 26min 2 sec, followed just 5 seconds later by Callum Mitchelmore from Shrewsbury AC. Dom Jones from Mercia in 26:38. How they get round that fast I don’t know! Not quiet as fast as Tim Davies, record holder from 2010 with 25:03.

First lady was Mel Price – who over the last 4 years has consistently beaten her previous course time, and record – this year by just one second! 29min38 sec. Rachel Parker, new to fell running, second in 29:55 and Emma Gould 3rd in 30:33.

There were strong junior times – William Kay, Telford AC 28:24 1st under 14, and Henry Webb also U14 32:03. Jack Birch, Tipton Harriers 1st U16 32:23. It was really great to see so many green & white shirts of the Tipton runners. I’m told they regularly make the trip to this event – a privilege to see them supporting each other so well.

Well done Julia Humphreys for being both the 1st lady over 50, and last (nearly) finisher, crossing the finish with Joanna Sharp from Ludlow and with Craig Henn, as dedicated sweep weighed down with a huge pile of all the markers I,d put out!

One injury – Mark Agnew with a badly twisted ankle. We’re all greatly relieved it’s not broken & wish him a speedy recovery – although not too quick so we can have a few more slightly leisurely Tuesday evenings!!

Tim Parker.