There was a moving start to the Mike Groves 10k at Coltishall’s RAF base as race director Paul Taylor paid tribute to Sze-Ming Cheung who tragically lost his life in an accident whilst out cycling last week.

As a former member of the Coltishall Jaguars, he was clearly a well-loved and respected member of the sporting community.

A minute’s applause was perfectly observed by the 488 competitors and the countless spectators and marshals.

This gave a strong motivation for a raft of outstanding performances from the Great Yarmouth Road Runners team. Coupled with ideal racing conditions it proved to be a very positive experience.

With many newer members in attendance it was good to see the men’s club captain James Carass, providing inspiration by leading the team home. Furthermore, he managed to comfortably dip under the 40-minute mark for the first time earning, himself an impressive personal best of 39:34. Terry Hubbard cruised home in 41:22 after cycling 25 miles to the start and cycling home again afterwards. Terry has improved enormously recently and always makes running look effortless.

Ladies’ captain Penny Studley was next home, finishing in 42:56. This was a new pb for Penny, who also earned a new club record in her age group and a first place age group award. The personal bests followed thick and fast with a further eight Road Runners achieving their quickest times over 10k, namely Toni George, Mark Ollett, Kelly Shaw, Jane Middleton, Steph Deeks, Tony Ludlam, Jo Pinkney and Nicky McGee who completed her first ever 10k race.

Long-serving club member John Bone chased his grandson home to finish in 49:49 to earn himself a first place award in his age group. John continues to inspire his club mates with his many achievements throughout his running career.

Regardless of whether personal bests were achieved, many runners commented on how much they enjoyed the event and how they felt well supported by each other. Sarah Parkes said a special thankyou to team mate Anne Standerwick who kept her spirits high when she was starting to tire. This is a commonly heard sentiment which is one reason why running as part of a supportive club is so motivating.