A record number of runners took part in the Hoylake 10k coastal fun run on Sunday. When the entry deadline closed on August 31, 650 had people have registered, but on the day, more than 150 people turned up to register, swelling numbers to 813.
First man across the finish line was Greg Jones from Wallasey AC in 33 minutes 59 seconds. First woman to finish was Sophie Hunt, also from Wirral AC, in 38 mins and 10 seconds.
The Globe-backed event, now in its 19th year, has raised more than £7,500 for Wednesday Special Needs Club's Soft Play Sensory Resource, which is based at Hoylake Community Centre.Race secretary Carla Williams said: 'What a fantastic day. The weather was beautiful weather and we had an an unbelievable turn out of runners - where did you all come from? ' There was also a great enthusiastic crowd of supporters - Well done to everyone. 'The organisers are still recovering!!!! Suspect runners as well! ' Among those taking part was club member Matt Heard, 24, who is blind, has epilepsy and cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair regularly. Niall Murphy, who volunteers at the club, ran the first 9.5k and before passing the baton to Matt who completed the remaining half kilometre. They finished the run in 53.51. Carla Williams said: 'We would to thank all the Wednesday Special Needs Club's volunteers and friends who helped on the day, with special thanks to the volunteers, among them were St John's (Moreton Branch) and Wirral West MP Esther McVey, who started the run.' The results will be available on the club's website, www.wsnc.co.uk, on Wednesday.
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Source - Wirral Globe - Wednesday, 12/09/2012 by Craig Manning
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