Sunday saw the 25^th running of the Stroud Half marathon. The fast course attracts a wide range of runners from international class Kenyans to novice fun runners. Of the 2000 runners entered this year there were 9 runners from the Forest of Dean AC.

With the weather forecast for heavy rain and strong winds, choice of tactics was never in doubt with most runners opting to take the shower after the race. This prompted some fast times.

Steve Cunliffe was first out of the blocks taking over 3 minutes off his previous best, finishing with a time of 1.25.12 for 83^rd overall and 7^th in the MV50 category. Jackie Green was also delighted with her first ever sub 1.45 taking 608^th place in 1.44.42. She also managed 9^th in the LV45 category.

Andy Dallow was slightly off his best time set at Stroud last year, with a 1.33.36 giving him 251^st place. Next home was Walter Leach who struggled in the latter stages but still managed a creditable 1.38.36 in his first half marathon. Katie Griffiths running her first race for a while just cracked the 1.40 barrier for 427^th place in 1.39.51.Richard Johnson also found the last 3 miles to be a huge challenge. After running well for 10 miles he finally had to settle for 1.41.00 and 456^th place.

Deborah Pritchard and Amber Prisk ran neck and neck throughout, with Deborah just stealing it in 1.48.22. Amber, who was also running her first half marathon, came in six seconds behind in 1.48.28 for 755^th. Thomas Goddard completed the team finishing in 1.51.42 for 856^th place.

Finally just a word of thanks and a big well done from all the team to everybody at Stroud AC for a really well organised race. The commemorative medals this year were particularly appreciated. See you next year.