The Len Mullen Memorial Cross Country Races staged as part of Stockport Harriers Centenary celebrations at Woodbank Park attracted athletes from far afield as London and Holmfirth, the event raised over £1,500 for The Christie cancer charity.
Race organiser Brian Leigh was impressed by the quality of entries for the race sponsored by Road & Fell, Stockport’s specialist running shop.
Stockport Harriers dominated both races in the individual and team categories. Nicola Berry, Imogen Nutter and Helen Walch took the first three places respectively together with the team award in the 3 mile ladies’ event with Maureen Wilkins taking the over-45's prize.
The men’s race over 5 miles went the same way for the host club with Steve Vernon leading the charge followed by Andy Nixon with Jack Morris in third also clinching the team prize. Rick Loyd came in first over-40 and Len Best leading over-60.
A prize donated by Heroes & Legends, Merseyway Precinct for the first male and female over-50 from Stockport Harriers went to Pete Nixon and Alexis Dinsmor respectivley.
George Tivey provided an informative and lively event commentary, assisted by members of Len Mullen’s family in presenting the awards.
Stockport’s Liberty Belles harmony singing group entertained the spectators including the Lord Mayor between races.
The ladies’ group who sing for pleasure at this type of event found it was an ideal opportunity to showcase their barbershop singing style to a new audience.
The prize of a meal for two donated by Da Vincis of Stockport for the spectator in most authentic Edwardian costume went to music teacher Liz Goodall from the Liberty Belles.
Graham Brooke, an extra with Len Mullen and Nigel Havers in the iconic opening scene of Chariots of Fire, ran in the club’s replica centenary vest with competition number 1924 to acknowledge the year that Chariots of Fire covered, finished in 46th place.