Runners gathered in Chester on Sunday for the annual Chester Marathon and Metric Marathon, which took place in and around the city's historic streets and scenic Cheshire countryside. This was a hugely popular race, not only due to its event organisation, but the amazing support throughout the route. Fantastic results were achieved all round, especially in light of the harsh climb during the penultimate mile and the residual windy conditions from Storm Amy to contend with. For Biggleswade AC, Phil Rowlett was out to better his time from earlier in the year at the Paris Marathon - and he did just that, with 3:30:30. This was a PB for Phil and a real testament to the training he has put in with the Club since joining. Ian Grimwood was next home for Biggleswade in 4:27:40, and although Ian didn't feel as strong as he did in the days leading up to race, this remains an excellent time and he should be proud of his performance. Also completing the marathon distance was Kate Hair running with her partner, Lee and who both crossed the line together in a time of 5:34:12 to receive their well-deserved finisher medals.
Also on offer was the Metric Marathon, a 26.2km distance race following the latter stages of the Marathon course. This option can provide a great stepping stone to a marathon or if looking for something a little more than a half marathon. Another coupling was BAC 2nd claim members Georgia and Richard Barker taking on the Metric challenge. This was Georgia's longest run to date and was in preparation for her running the London Marathon next April. Georgia's race approach paid off with her maintaining a consistent pace throughout and a strong finish to achieve 3:17:55. For me, I took my husband's place as he was unable to run unfortunately - I had been meaning to enter, but didn't quite get round to it but all worked out in the end. Three weeks previously I had run just under 15 miles for my stage in the Round Norfolk Relay as part of the BAC team and felt the Metric distance (a mile and bit more) should be manageable. I had no expectations other than to just enjoy the day as a result, and I really did. The high five I received from Dame Denise Lewis at the start was a particular highlight! This is definitely an event I'd recommend and one I'll make sure to sign up for next year.