MALVERN Joggers took a trip to rural Herefordshire to compete in the Crocodile eight-mile race on Sunday.
In a race known for its carnival atmosphere, the 203 competitors took to the start line of the multi-terrain event under blue skies and were entertained by live music at various points.
From the gun, it was Hereford Couriers duo of Matt James and Dave Williams, accompanied the Joggers' Jon Newey and Malvern's Matt Scriven (Mercia Fell Runners), that made a break for it and quickly distanced the rest of the field.
Matt James always looked the stronger of the four and pulled quickly away, leaving the other three to battle for the lower places as the 100-step climb into the Crocodile woods began. Scriven put in a big effort here to leave Newey and Williams behind. Along the heavy mud of the summit ridge and on the tricky descent, Newey and Williams were neck-and-neck until the final two miles where Williams pulled ahead of a flagging Newey.
Matt James crossed the line in 52.21, with Scriven arriving 1.20 later, splitting the Hereford two, Williams coming in third place with 54.20 and Newey some 30 seconds back.
The Joggers' Alison Merley came in 83rd place with 1.14.48 to take the prize for the first female over 40.
Other Malvern times: 25th Andy Milton 1.02.56, 116th Emilie Van De Graff 1.21.24, 124th Sam Hammond 1.22.56, 131st Peter Cowling 1.23.58, 161st Chris Barker 1.30.27, 162nd Julie Caseley 1.30.27, 197th Louise Cowling 1.53.37.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article