Lyon World Masters Athletics Championships

 Before their own event, the DRC members enjoyed watching a hugely impressive standard of competition across the age groups in the track events.  It was noticeable that there was excellence and sportsmanship on show, and several world records were broken

It had been very hot earlier in the week, so all three runners were glad when the temperature cooled to a more manageable level by the half marathon.  Even at 7 in the morning though, it was still quite hot. The course was two laps of a park, and looked flat and fast on paper.  However, there were multiple sharp bends and hairpin turns, leaving most runners finding the going quite hard.  There was also a bit of congestion at the start, making it difficult to settle into a rhythm for the first couple of miles.  Sian took advantage of Les' superb pacing abilities for the start, but still struggled to feel comfortable once she went solo.  She knew she was close to PB form, but the heat, turns and congestion made it difficult to get into her groove. Despite this, she ran on determinedly to finish in 92,39, a very strong performance in the conditions, and an indication of her continuing impressive progress.  Les continued his comeback from a stress fracture, and put in a well judged and gritty effort to get home in 97,49.  He was satisfied that he had given his all on the day, and is getting faster week by week. Lisa was able to settle into a nice rhythm after a couple of miles and felt quite good for most of the race.  She was not sure if there were any V45 women ahead of her as the start had been so congested, but just tried to focus on running well. It was to her delight that she heard the French commentators announce that she was the first V45 woman and World Champion as she approached the line. Lisa and Sian were joined in the team by Lynne Champion of Kent, and the trio were thrilled to discover they had won the gold team medal ahead of the French and United States teams.  It was very special being able to stand on the podium together, and definitely a memory to treaure.