Haltemprice 10k - 2026

Not even Storm Boelo could dampen the spirits with its predicted 50+ mile an hour winds. As we headed towards Willerby the rain and wind had practically vanished and conditions looked perfect. Looks can be deceiving; the wind was very much still there.

The course was practically an out and back with a loop around Swanland at one end and a small loop near the start in West Ella Road area. The starting hooter went and hundreds of runners cascaded down the slope to the Haltemprice Roundabout, the wind picks up on the first section of the loop and then hits everyone full in the face for the just short of three mile climb to Swanland. The sound of wheezing runners could barely be heard over the wind, and it was very hard going. Mark, however, seemed to be making outstanding progress. Should anyone need anything to take their mind off their efforts a game of 'which of the enormous houses would I have if money were no object' can always help.

Once the climb through Swanland to the pond is done, all the runners know things are about to get better. The long climb thus far is about to become the long downhill with a serious backwind. Heavy legs suddenly seem lighter, and the pace really picks up. At some points, the worry is going a bit too fast and careering into the garden topiary on the way. After the last bend, heading down to the finish line really goes on for much further than expected as the start line is crossed and there is still a few hundred metres to make the full distance. There were plenty of supporters cheering everyone over the line. It is a fine course even when the weather is conspiring against you.

Mark was the first Harrier home with an impressive time, fractional over 40 minutes, and first in his age category. Peter next with a 'happy given the conditions' time and fourth in category. Bringing up the rear was Jane, 3rd in category, but with a fantastic finishing speed and looking in control. It will definitely be a race on the club calendar in future.