Royston Runners had over 20 runners successfully complete the London Marathon last weekend, including many runners taking part for the first time. 
First-time London marathon runner Eric Taylor, who won his place through the club back in November, said: “Running the marathon was an amazing experience. I started running with the club through the Couch to 5k programme; to be running the London Marathon a few years later has been a dream come true. The support and crowds around London were unbelievable. I had such a great time I’ve already entered the ballot for next year!” Eric ran with 3 other members who all crossed the line at the same time (5 hours 29 mins) and were given their medals by another Royston Runner who happened to be volunteering on the finish line.
Another runner who successfully completed the course was Sharon Windebank who was running for the Arthur Rank Hospice Charity in memory of a much-loved and respected local business lady, Julia Brooks.
XC champions
After a fantastic finale on the Heath last month, Royston Runners picked up the winner’s trophy yesterday (Monday) for the Herts XC County League Series Championship finishing ahead of other running clubs in the borough including Stevenage, Broxbourne, Letchworth, Harpenden, Hitchin, Tring, Watford and Barnet.
Men’s captain, Liam Butler, said, “We are delighted to win the XC League. We’re so proud of our members who helped us get to the top of the league and would like to thank everyone who supported us along the way.”
The Men’s A & B teams also came first while the women’s teams came second.
World Marathon majors
Two Royston Runners, Liam Butler and Robin Todd, recently collected their 6th Abbott World Major star, something only 8,000 people in the world have managed. A six-star finisher is someone who has completed all six marathon Major Marathons: London, New York, Boston, Chicago, Berlin and Tokyo.
It has taken both runners over 5 years to complete this amazing feat.
Iris Hornsey wins gold at World Masters’ Championship in Poland
Royston Runner, Iris Hornsey, recently competed at the World Masters’ Championships in Torun, Poland. Iris raced in the W80 young category collecting a total of 5 medals. She was particularly pleased to get Gold in her main event, the 800m, in a season’s best time. It was a very competitive age group as these results would have secured medals within the lower w75 age category too.
· 400m Bronze (1.51)
· 800m Gold (4.22)
· 1500m Silver (8.58)
· 200m relay Gold
· 200m mixed relay Gold
About the club:
Royston Runners is a friendly running club based at the Heath Sports Club in Royston. The club welcomes runners of all levels and abilities whether you’re an elite runner with competitive ambitions or a gentle jogger looking to meet like-minded individuals, or somewhere in between.
The club meets in all weathers. During the summer months training sessions take place on off-road trails and footpaths, the perfect way to explore the local area. Club members can participate in speedwork and circuit sessions as well as local cross-country leagues. Members also receive discounts on many popular running events and running clothing and equipment.
Find out more in the membership section of the website Royston Runners
