St. Helens Striders made the short trip over Billinge Hill to compete in the Wigan Trail 10k on Sunday. This excellent event, organised by local rivals Wigan Harriers, is always a favourite on the Striders calendar.

On what was a glorious spring morning, Kelly Hamilton produced a sensational performance to emerge victorious in the ladies’ race, in a blistering 40:58.

Next to cross the line for the women were sister act, Wendy Davies and Ann Johnson. After battling throughout the race in a great display of sibling rivalry, Davies finished in 48:07 with Johnson hot on her heels just one second behind.

First home for the men was John ‘Williams. He finished in 31st place overall in a time of 43:00.

He was delighted to earn a cash prize as the first finisher for Striders who had most athletes of any club competing in the race. Next was the ever consistent Darren Eckersley in 43:28 (33rd), followed by Andy Shaw in 45:22 (49th). There was another outstanding performance from Frank Cahill who overpowered his age group rivals to secure 1st place in the V60 category.

Back on Merseyside, a team of Striders took part in a charity race hosted by Liverpool Running Bugs. The ‘No More Knives’ 5 Mile Race at Stadt Moers Park in Knowsley. The event raised a huge amount of money for the charity set up in the wake of the tragic murder of Adam Ellison in 2017. Hannah Whittaker finished in 2nd place in the ladies’ race with close friend and training partner Lisa Cheers close behind in 3rd. Kevin Outten performed admirably to finish in 8th place overall.

Anita Hall headed to Cheshire to take on the formidable Sandstone Trail Challenge. She competed the epic 33 mile course in an impressive 8 hours.

In Preston, the tireless Brian Davies was the lone Strider at the Blacksticks 10k and produced yet another solid performance, finishing in 58:37.