Regarded as probably the most scenic multi-terrain race in England, this year’s Ripon 10 mile event attracted an impressive number of entries, with 283 runners travelling from all over the north to compete, cheered on in the sunny weather by an enthusiastic crowd and team of volunteers.
Organised by Ripon Runners, the race started and finished on Hell Wath Nature Reserve, with its hilly but picturesque course leading runners around the Studley Royal Estate – with beautiful views of Ripon and the surrounding countryside. Inaugurated back in 2005, this year’s Ripon 10 completely sold out, hosting almost twice the number of participants as last year’s event.
Race Director Paul Brazier said:
It’s been a terrific day, and we’re delighted to have seen such an uptick in numbers over the last few years.
The Ripon 10 is now part of the Yorkshire Tenners series, which incorporates 10k and 10mile races organised by six North Yorkshire running clubs.
The series is designed to increase entries to our club races and give runners a new challenge – and judging by this year’s turnout it appears to be working.
This year’s race winner was Chris Shannon of the Lonely Goat Running Club, crossing the line in 58.08, while the first female finisher was City of York AC’s Laura Thompson, recording a time of 1.06.54. The first Ripon Runner club member to finish was third-placed Hugh Watkin with a time of 59.56
Another notable competitor was Reece Mellor from County Durham, who completed the race carrying an extremely hefty backpack to help raise money for the charity Spare10ForBen, which focuses on improving the mental health and wellbeing of individuals requiring support.
Ripon Runners itself is also donating a proportion of the race proceeds to charity, with the National Trust and Ripon City Panthers Junior Football Club being this year’s worthy recipients.
Race Director Paul Brazier:
We’d like to thank all the runners who came along today to compete, and the many supporters and volunteers who helped make the event such a success.
But let’s be honest, when you’re running in Studley Deer Park and enjoying the Yorkshire countryside, what better place is there to be on a sunny day?
A full list of race results can be found here
