From brutal headwinds to hot sunshine, PBs to club records, debut marathons to World Major qualifying standards — what a month of performances! 👏
Boston UK Marathon — 12th April
First up was Michelle Tafili, battling 30mph head/cross winds for almost the entire course. Resistance running at its finest! Despite the conditions, Michelle produced a 3-minute PB, finished top 10 in her age group, set a Walton club age group record, and secured a London 2027 GFA time in 3:38:14.
Brighton Marathon — 12th April
On another gusty course, Adam Lomax delivered a brilliant marathon debut, smashing through the sub-3 barrier in 2:53:28 — just one week after racing his first ever half marathon!
Newport Marathon — 19th April
Our most experienced marathon runner, Mandy Ruks, took to the streets after a long and intense training block. Mandy secured GFA times for most Abbott World Marathon Majors, finished top 10 in her age group, and crossed the line in 3:28:53.
London Marathon — 26th April
To round off the spring marathons, our athletes took on one of the biggest of them all — and once again, the weather had a say, with bright, hot sunshine throughout.
First home for Walton was experienced marathoner Craig Jarman, running a strong 2:47:42, showing the rewards of a rigorous training block.
Next, Charlotte Ryan smashed the senior ladies club record by over 25 minutes, crossing the line in 2:51:25. An 8-minute PB and another Championship qualifying time — an incredible performance.
Charlie Pedlar stood his ground and didn’t let the heat beat him, finishing strongly in 3:17:17.
And after racing Newport just one week earlier, Mandy Ruks returned to London for her “cooldown”! Soaking up the atmosphere, celebrating her fantastic achievement, she cruised round in 4:26:36.
We celebrate these results with pride, knowing they gave their all.
Well done, athletes. Time for some track!
🖤💛❤️💛🖤
