Ian Richards had to put up a good fight before retaining his Sussex 10,000 metres track walking championships at Broadbridge Heath on Saturday.
In almost ideal conditions, just a slight chilly breeze out of the sun, 10 walkers started this race.
Holder, Ian Richards (Steyning), went off into an early lead followed by David Crane (Surrey WC), a newcomer to the Sussex ranks but Ian never really shook off Crane who stayed about 50 metres adrift, especially after Richards received a caution early on. Just after halfway Crane put in a great effort and passed Ian but then tired and after he also received a caution fell away to let Ian go on to take the Sussex Men’s Title in 51-39. Crane, who has now lived in Sussex for many years, held on well for 2nd place in 52-22, Trevor Jones (Steyning) took the 3rd spot in 58-45 after an epic struggle with Richard Emsley (Crawley Saints & Sinners), only getting away over the last 4 laps as Emsley, a former champion, tired.
Anne Jones (Steyning) won the Sussex Women’s Title in 66-35.
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