RUNNERS managed to avoid thunderstorms at the weekend as the Race for Men returned to Salisbury.

Not only was this the first Race for Men after the Covid-19 pandemic, halting the event for a number of years, this was the first year women could also be involved.

On Sunday, June 5, starting at Hudson's Field, participants completed either a 3k, 10k or half marathon route, all the while raising money to benefit the Stars Appeal Prostate Cancer Fund.

Despite threats of downpour, and the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations elsewhere, runners had a successful, dry run around Salisbury and the surrounding areas, greeted with cheering spectators throughout.

At the time of writing the total sum raised for the Salisbury District Hospital charity had not yet been calculated, but organisers confirmed around 350 people had signed up to take part, including a three-year-old.

Jamie Biggs, who decided to take on the challenge at the weekend, completed the half marathon in just one hour, 22 minutes and 50 seconds - a course record.

The fastest 10k was 36 minutes and 26 seconds by Anton Weatherhead, and the fastest 3k was 10 minutes and 19 seconds by Will Page.

There was huge success for the Rayner family, with 15-year-old Milly Rayner walking away as the fastest female in the 3k, with 11 minutes and 31 seconds.

Mum Henrietta became the fastest female in the 10k, with a recorded finish of 51 minutes and 38 seconds.

Bakery The Dusty Apron even made specific Race For Men protein brownies for the occasion, so all of the runners could receive a sweet treat at the end.

The Race for Men team said the event was "well on its way" to hitting the £50,000 goal, including money raised at previous events.

They added: "We want to say a big thank you to everyone who volunteered throughout the day and in the run up."

Organiser Toby Giles said: “To every single person involved, a huge thank you.

“This event is all about bringing Salisbury and the surrounding areas together to raise money for the Stars Appeal Prostate Cancer Fund, and it was so great to see so many people involved.

“Save the date for next year - it’s going to be bigger and better than ever!”

Next year's Race for Men hopes to go ahead on June 4, 2023.

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