Vale’s 2015/16 Grand Prix got underway with the first of 17 events taking place on 28th November. The Wolverton 5 mile race took place at Willen Lake which unfortunately for the competitors is flat and open which meant that the strong winds caused many people problems, but at least it remained dry.
Almost 300 competitors finished the race; the first three Vale athletes were fairly close together with Martyn Summerfield first to finish in 37th place in 28:27, the second V45 athlete. Next came James Davis in 42nd spot (28:49) and Sean Wilson 44th (29.00). Charlotte Steptoe was our first lady to cross the line in 33.21 with Julia Austin hot on her heels in 33.51 finishing as first V50 lady. Alan Roberts, also V50 finished in 35.08.
Julia reports that both ladies were pleased with their performances given the conditions. The race also included the Eastern Vets 5 Mile Championships where she won the gold medal for her age category.
So far as the Grand Prix standings are concerned after the first race, Martyn Summerfield produced his best ever age graded performance to lead the Vale members home. In the ladies section the battle for overall supremacy in the GP carried on from where it left off last season with Charlotte Steptoe and Julia Austin. Although Charlotte beat Julia home in the race, Julia’s better age graded performance and extra 2 bonus points gives her an early lead in the GP.