Category: Races

Rain, mud, cowbells… what more could you ask for at a mixed terrain race in rural North Yorkshire?! We had 22 runners taking part in the Snape 10k and 5k event, a merry band of supporters around the course (that’s where the cowbells come in!), and two club members volunteering for marshalling duties - a fantastic turnout for HARC. There were some inspiring performances from those flying our club colours, as well as the usual show of outstanding sportsmanship and team spirit. While some headed off to shelter from the absolutely awful weather, Team HARC took up their usual spot at the finish area to cheer in every single runner. Once we did arrive at the Institute for well-deserved cakes and coffee, there were trophies to collect. Simon Anderson stormed home as the overall winner of the 5k race, while Louis Fernandes claimed top spot in his age category in the 10k. Both races started simultaneously but heading out in opposite directions. We...

The Great North Run lived up to its reputation as the World’s biggest half marathon, with more than 60,000 runners taking part in the 2025 race. The morning started with the usual mix of nerves and excitement, and a number of HARC athletes joined the throngs of runners gathering on the iconic Tyne Bridge ready for the challenge ahead. Conditions were much better than in recent years – no torrential rain for 2025 – and the support on the course was amazing. Crowds lined the streets from the very beginning, blasting music, handing out sweets and cheering every step the runners took. A fly-past by the Red Arrows gave everyone an extra buzz of adrenaline! HARCster, Rachel Hall, took on the GNR challenge for the first time. She said, “Running the Great North Run was an unforgettable experience – the atmosphere was electric, nothing like I’ve ever experienced before with the crowd’s support carrying me the entire distance. I had the privilege of...

HARC are beginning to make this local race a bit of a habit! Held by Thirsk and Sowerby Harriers, it provides the perfect opportunity to run around some lovely quiet village roads and open countryside. It also culminates in a splendid BBQ at the cricket ground. As ever, there was a sea of HARC blue on course and waiting at the finish line. We like to bring supporters with us too! Michelle Slade, one of our coaches, participated this year and commented that one of the things HARC athletes do particularly well is “supporting each other and other runners at the start, middle and, in particular, the end of the run. As a competitor myself, it is always a highlight when running to the finish to hear the sound of HARC cheering and applauding every runner who crosses the finish line.” Those cheers certainly gave some of our runners that extra ‘umph’ for a sprint finish! Although the roads were not closed,...