AFTER a long absence from the local racing calendar, the Isabella Rose Foundation Griffin Grind 5 mile road race was held on Sunday and saw some impressive Strider performances over what proved to be a challenging, hilly course.

The race was well supported by St Helens Striders and the club claimed the first three ladies prizes.

Rachael Fairclough ran in first followed by Julie Pennington and Pauline Horsefall. Wednesday saw the finale of the Astley Trail 4.4 mile series in Chorley.

St Helens Striders are always represented well in the four race series between April and August and there were multiple persona bests gained.

First strider was Rich Seville 29.12(PB) followed by Rachael Fairclough 29.35 (PB and 4th lady), Gary Carney 29.53, Jono Kirkham 30.51 (PB), Ian Wright 31.43 (PB), Kev Monaghan 31.54, Pauline Horsefall 32.44 (PB), Dave Navis 32.48, Rich Worseley 33.05, Tony Horsefall 33.29, Neil Rigby 34.15, Alex Abbott 34.41, Tony Dagnall 35.21, Carol Foster 35.35 (PB), Louise Read 46.44, Cheryl Orrick 37.12, Joanne Keogh 38.25 and Deb Hill 45.13.