THE St Helens Striders had a record turn out in the final of the four mile road race series at Chorley recently.

An ever improving Paul Carrier led the Men’s team home with a new personal best of 21:49 finishing in 10th place. Austrian newcomer Jacob Hager was next to follow with 24:42 which also gave him 1st place in the Junior section. Coming up quickly behind Jacob was Gary Carney with 24:55, Brian Middleton 26:25, Les Abbott 26:59, John Lingard 27:25, Chris Reid 28:19, Tommy Houghton 29:29, newcomer Roy McHale 29:57, Alex Jackson 30:06, Steve Pickavance 31:17 and Alex Abbott in 39:32.

In the Ladies team, Rachael Fishwick was the first to cross the line in 29:51, followed by Kate Clegg 30:21, Dawn Platt 31:38 and Carol Foster 33:12.

Striders Men’s team was placed 6th on the night and 5th overall in the series whilst the Ladies team were placed 3rd and ultimately finished 2nd just behind Blackburn Harriers & AC. Individual prizes were also awarded to John Lingard (1st V55) and Tommy Houghton (2nd V55) which nicely rounded off what has been a very successful series and summer season.

Training for the Striders continues on a Monday and a Wednesday at the YMCA.

Anyone who is interested in joining the club should contact Les on 01744 23160 or email saintsrun@hotmail.com