Ten Kilometre Run to Save Lakes

The run started at the athletic track at Tilsley Park, went over Lodge Hill, through the grounds of Radley College , and returned along Sugworth Lane and through Sunningwell, finishing back at Tilsley Park . Added interest for the runners was provided by a clay pigeon shoot taking place adjacent to the public footpath through Radley College !

The winner was Mark Shepherd, who finished in a time of 36:22. His girlfriend, Rachael Elliott, the first woman to finish, came in just over 3 minutes later at 39:37. Both run with Team Kennett. Mark, a project manager from Vodaphone, who more usually runs 100 kilometre ultra-marathons, said,

“I enjoy running in the countryside, but find that more and more of our countryside is being built on and destroyed. The Radley Lakes are a local issue, but they matter, so we’ve come along to show support for the campaign to save them”.

Rachael, a research manager from Trinsum, added that

“The Radley lakes are an important wildlife site that must be preserved”.

Other quotes from the day:

“I used to swim in Thrupp Lake back in the seventies and it would be a great shame to see this lake being destroyed, so I’ve come out to register my protest. I still cycle and run around the lake and I find it a great spot to sit and watch the world go by”.

Des King (75) the second-oldest competitor, a member of of Abingdon Amblers

“Running means a lot to me. What they’re doing to the Radley lakes is ridiculous, so I’ve come out today to support the campaign”.

Nick Lang (16) the youngest male competitor

“This is my first 10k run. I’ve run because we mustn’t allow npower to destroy such a beautiful wildlife site”.

Alice Brewer (16) the youngest female competitor

Other links relevant to this posting

Full results at www.saveradleylakes.org.uk