On Sunday, two members of Newport & District Running Club made the trip up the A41 to take part in the Chester Marathon. A popular local race, the route starts at Chester racecourse, taking in a lap of the city centre, before runners take a tour of the countryside south of the city, visiting villages such as Eccleston, Pulford, Trevalyn, Holt and Fulford, before returning to Chester for a finish by the river, just around the corner from the racecourse. 

Ashley Moore at the Chester Marathon

Ashley Moore and Scott May were the Novaportans taking part this year; in Ashley’s case, it was his first ever time running the full marathon distance, and he sent us this report:

“At 9am on Sunday 8th October 20, weeks of training came to effect. First Marathon time! I’ve never run that far ever, peaking at a 20-mile long run in the lead up. Race conditions were unseasonably warm and when the sun came out in full it was too warm! I now have a lovely vest burn/tan line.

I stuck to my plan and ran the first half easy to steady then a few mile bursts between miles 13-20. A few pit stops to put electrolyte tablets in the water provided and refuel. The race, as expected, was well organised with great volunteers at each aid station and plenty of gels for all!

The mental battle kicked in at mile 20 as I ran into the unknown, and by mile 22 I knew all too well I had run a race! Hamstring spasms and quad cramps at mile 24 and ended up power walking the last hill at mile 25. Overall, a very up and down route but well supported in the villages we passed through with loads of sweets being given out and strangers shouting your name in encouragement.

In hindsight I probably should have picked a “flatter” course as my first marathon, it was a challenge. Goody bag was epic: full of sweets, nutrition and a 1980s sweatband which I will use with pride. An awesome long sleeve top and substantial medal to round it all off and I’m more than happy to say I’m a marathoner!!”

Ashley after the race

Ashley completed the race in 3 hours, 37 minutes, 46 seconds in position 847 out of 4,586 runners, whilst Scott finished 369th overall in a time of 3:30:25.