RECORD NUMBER OF RUNNERS TAKE PART IN LONDON MARATHON WARM-UP RACE
Thousands of runners took to the streets of Kingston-upon-Thames on Sunday for the Kingston Breakfast Run organised by Human Race, and at the same time raising vital funds for Leukaemia Research. Both 8.2 and 16 mile races were on offer, providing something for everyone whether they were accomplished club runners, fun runners or those in training for the London Marathon in 3 weeks time. All competitors followed the fast and completely flat scenic loop around Kingston, with the sunny spring morning ensuring some stunning views along the River Thames up to Hampton court Palace.
With accurate mile markers, chip timing and Lucozade Sport drink stations along the course, the race was a perfect warm up for over 80% of the field looking to practice their race day strategy for the London Marathon a mere 3 weeks away.In keeping with the London Marathon focus, the 16 mile race was dominated by Tom Bedford (who last won in 2004), who saw off the opposition over the extremely fast course and dominated throughout the race, finishing in a time of 1:29.25. He was followed by Ben Paviour (Herne Hill Harriers) in 1:30.13 and regular competitor Nick Houlton (UK Net Runner) in 1:30 28.
In the women’s race Alison Hopkins (Ealing AC) stormed to victory in an impressive 1:42.40 and in 34th place overall, with Isobel Rea (West 4 Runners) a few minutes behind with a personal best of 1:45.18. Third place went to Nathalie Young in 1:47.10.
The race also saw many club and fun runners looking for a challenge or warm up for the season ahead in the 8.2 mile race, with many helping to raise over £30,000 for official charity Leukaemia Research Fund.
The women’s field in the 8.2 mile race was dominated by Tanith Maxwell (Lanson Running) who’s impressive performance saw her competing against the men throughout, coming 4th overall with a time of 47:37. Her closest rival Joanne Kent of Barnet Athletics, nearly 3 minutes behind in 50:11. Close on Kent’s heels and in third place was Anna Critchlow of West 4 Harriers in 50:28.
In the men’s field Ben Whitworth of Woodford Green AC took the win in 45:03 with Alex Horton (Barnet Athletics) over the line in 2nd in 46:12. George Donnelly of Reigate Priory AC took third in 46:54.
There were 1906 finishers in the 16 mile event and 1520 runners finished in the 8.2mile race.
Full results on our Results Page
