Local runners enjoy the Ealing Half Marathon

More than 160 Ealing Eagles ran Sunday’s Ealing Half Marathon – that’s almost one in every three of the club’s members.

Meanwhile, another 50 or so – plus their friends and family - were working hard behind the scenes as volunteers, whether setting up the course, marshalling the route, co-ordinating other marshals or tidying up afterwards.

Chairman Andy McFarlane said: “It was fantastic to see so many people wearing our black and white vests in our ‘home’ race. Many of our runners joined the Eagles after being inspired to take up running by last year’s Ealing Half, so for them to complete the course was a special achievement.”

The Eagles’ fastest male was Sergio Martinez-Gonzalez, who came home in 1:18.25 to finish in 25th place. Amy Cope-Balchin was fastest lady, finishing 257th in 01:31.55.

But there were great performances throughout the order, with more than 100 Eagles setting personal best times over the 13.1-mile distance.

Although the half marathon is organised separately from the club, race director Kelvin Walker is a coach with the Eagles. The club is also an official partner of the event – providing committee members, volunteers, support and expertise to help make it happen.

“Those who volunteered really enjoyed the experience and the Eagles are rightly proud of their efforts to help make the Ealing Half a great event for the borough,” said McFarlane.

“It’s great to have a successful race like this on our doorstep and we hope it’ll become a permanent fixture.”

2nd October 2013