The Isle of Man Veteran Athletes Club welcomed competitors to the Hansard International Spring Handicap 10km Run and 5km Walk, held under sunny but cool conditions - ideal for racing.
This year marked the first time the event has been staged in May, a change that was widely welcomed by participants. The lighter evenings and improved visibility provided a significant contrast to the traditionally darker March conditions, creating a more enjoyable and safer racing environment for all.
The event attracted a strong turnout, including some of the Island’s top junior walkers as guests, adding further quality and excitement to the competition.
A huge thank you goes to all the marshals and volunteers who gave up their time to support the event, as well as Timing Solutions for their continued professional support in ensuring accurate results throughout the day.
Link to the Results: Here
🏃♂️ 10km Handicap Race Results
A competitive handicap race saw athletes of all ages and categories battling it out, with performances reflecting both strength and consistency.
- 1st – Michael Loundes (IOMVAC, M75) – 46m36s
- 2nd – Robbie Callister (IOMVAC, M70) – 50m54s
- 3rd – Kevin Deakes (IOMVAC, M65) – 51m05s
Other notable performances:
- 4th – Jo Schade (F57) – 51m18s
- 5th – Robert Young (IOMVAC, M65) – 53m21s
- 6th – David Bignell (IOMVAC, M45) – 55m30s
- 7th – Dawn Atherton (IOMVAC, F40) – 55m34s
- 8th – Helen Taylor (WAC, F50) – 56m04s
- 9th – Peter Callin (WAC, M50) – 58m53s
- 10th – Paul Rodgers (MH, M45) – 1h00m08s
- 11th – Terry Bates (IOMVAC, M70) – 1h02m53s
- 12th – Stephen Schuster (IOMVAC, M40) – 1h03m15s
- 13th – Mike Cross (Senior Men) – 1h05m41s
- 14th – Karen Gadsby (IOMVAC, F45) – 1h17m18s
- 15th – Toby Gadsby (WAC, Senior Men) – 1h18m38s
The handicap format once again produced a exciting and closely contested race, with adjusted times highlighting particularly strong performances across the field.
🚶♀️ 5km Walk Results
The 5km walk was equally competitive, with a strong field of experienced athletes.
- 1st – Jayne Farquhar (IOMVAC, F55) – 33m43s
- 2nd – Nikki Marshall (F60) – 33m51s
- 3rd – Jim Caley (MFR, M55) – 34m34s
Strong performances throughout the field included:
- 4th – Ian Callister (IOMVAC, M70) – 35m58s
- 5th – Louise Hollings (IOMVAC, F45) – 36m07s
- 6th – Dale Farquhar (IOMVAC, M45) – 36m52s
- 7th – Neil Wade (MH, Senior Men) – 37m23s
- 8th – Phill Swales (IOMVAC, M60) – 39m31s
🌟 5km Walk – Guest Race (Juniors)
A highlight of the event was the guest junior race, showcasing some of the Island’s emerging talent.
- 1st – Amy Surgeon – 35:51
- 2nd – Tim Perry – 35:52
- 3rd – Polly Davies (MH) – 35:55
- 4th – Lilee Fletcher – 37:20
The inclusion of junior athletes added energy and promise to the event, with several impressive performances pointing to a bright future for race walking locally.