Helen Anthony took part in the ABP Newport Wales Marathon on Sunday October 24^th. The route was devised by double Olympic marathon runner Steve Brace. The route is one of Europe’s flattest marathon races – ideal for first timers or those looking for a fast time. 70% of finishers in the race’s history have claimed a PB.

The race started and finished on Newport’s vibrant riverfront and offered iconic landmarks, like the city’s Transporter Bridge and the stunning scenery of the surrounding Gwent Levels – with coastal wildlife and picturesque medieval villages.

The single loop route took the runners past the University of South Wales and the bustling Friars Walk shopping centre, before heading over the SDR Bridge, through the east of the city and into its rural areas. The runners headed on towards the village of Magor in Monmouthshire where the runners were met with a carnival atmosphere around the main village square.

Supporters will have the perfect opportunity to catch a glimpse of their loved ones and elite runners in the medieval town of Redwick, before the runners headed back towards the revamped city centre.

Before a sprint finish along the River Usk, runners will get the chance to take in the coastal wildlife on show at the Gwent Levels and Newport Wetlands – one of the UK’s most popular bird watching sites.

Helen ran superbly in very wet conditions to clock a hugely impressive time of 03:09:30.

On Sunday 24^thOctober, Ian Langler, Sharon & Paul Sharples travelled to Merseyside to take part in the Liverpool Rock n’ Roll Marathon. There was also Half marathon and a 5Kon the Saturday, which Sharon and Paul took part in.

The start of the race was at The Albert Dock. The runners set off through the city centre, passing many of the iconic sites such as the Cavern Club, where the Beatles once played, Goodison Park home of Everton FC, Stanley Park, The Liver Buildings and Chinatown. Thousands of spectators lined the streets and gave the runners great vocal support. Music and bands played along the route to make it a great carnival atmosphere. The final home stretch took the finishers down the Waterfront promenade to the finish at the Liverpool Echo Arena.

Sharon and Paul clocked times of 00:30:37 & 00:30:38 in the 5K to finish in 676^th & 677^th positions.

In the marathon, Ian Langler finished in 498^th position, clocking a great time of 03:47:35.

Sharon and Paul ran together, completing yet another marathon in 05:26:40 to finish in 1896^th & 1897^th spots.

Kurt Read took part in the Amberaid 31 mile trail Ultra over undulating countryside paths and trails in the Amber Valley, Derbyshire, close to the eastern edge of the Peak District.

The route scribes a figure of 8 through the rural splendour of the Amber Valley close to the Eastern edge of the Peak District. Highlights aplenty greeted the runners along their way. There were punchy climbs and engaging descents, expansive views and some of the most pleasant woodland trails you’ll find anywhere in the UK. The route was unmarked but each competitor were provided with route notes and gpx file as downloads. The event started at 09:00am and the cut off time was 18:00 pm. There were 4 checkpoints which were well stocked with granola and flapjack bars, bananas, crisps, and individually wrapped savouries. The checkpoints were at Wessington (9 miles), Fritchley (16 miles), Wessington (21 miles), Tupton (27 miles).

Weather conditions were dry but on the chilly side. Kurt ran a nice steady race, completing the test in 06:48:53 to finish in 18^th place. There were 46 finishers.