Hogg goes close in Hestercombe Humdinger (From Somerset County Gazette)

Hogg goes close in Hestercombe Humdinger

12:00pm Thursday 2nd February 2012 in Other Sports

THE Hestercombe Humdinger, organised by Taunton’s Running Forever Running Club, saw a large, highly competitive field compete at Hestercombe Gardens near Taunton on Sunday.

Over 300 runners entered the challenging 9.5 mile main race around the lanes of the Quantocks with over 100 opting for the shorter Hurtle 5K Run.

In the Humdinger a group of three runners comprising local runner Gerry Hogg from Running Forever Running Club, Dave Cutler from South Molton Strugglers and Laurence Bolam of Sidmouth RC, pulled away from the main field early in the race and stayed together right until the final few hundred metres.

Only a thrilling sprint finish could separate them with Laurence Bolam eventually triumphing in first place in 56mins and 49secs followed by Dave Cutler and Gerry Hogg.

The ladies field also saw some excellent times.

First place went to Liz Wiggins of Weston AC in 64m 08s followed in second place by Karen Cook of South West Road Runners in 66m 57s with third spot going to local girl Holly Ashford from Running Forever Running Club in 68m 43s.

For the second year in a row the male team prize went to a strong Running Forever Running Club team comprising Gerry Hogg, Alex Abrams, Dan Talbot and James Beach.

The ladies team prize was won by Yeovil Town Running Club consisting of Rachel Clay, Jill Harrison and Rosemary Harvey.

The 5k Hurtle Run was dominated by a strong contingent of upcoming junior runners.

First place went to Jamie Coles in 17m 23s followed by Alex Rogers in 17m 57s and Dominic Taylor in 18m 21s, all from Taunton AC.

First lady home was Rachel Langbein also from Taunton AC in 19m 55s.

Race Director Richard Palmer said: “We are absolutely delighted with the way the race has gone this year.

"The race is now a regular part of the Somerset Series but it also seems to attract runners from all over the country.

"There was a great mix of abilities from elite right through to fun runners taking part in their first competitive race.

“We are hopeful that this year’s race will have raised over £500 for our chosen charity WaterAid.

"Our race marshals also did a brilliant job, with many runners commenting on how encouraging they were.

"Putting a race on of this size is a huge team effort and it simply wouldn’t be possible without the countless volunteers who give up their time for free. We hope to make the 2013 Humdinger even better.”

Humdinger Age category Prize Winners: Male: Under 21 Joseph De Silva 1.08.05; Vet 40: Adam Stobbs 1.00.31; Vet 45: Gerry Hogg 56.55; Vet 50: Peter Fews 58.52; Vet 55: Richard Westgate 1.10.59; Vet 60: Robin Britton 1.09.57.

Female: Under 21 Holly Ashford 1.08.43; Vet 35: Liz Wiggins 1.04.08; Vet 40: Samantha Baker 1.13.05; Vet 45: Carol Buckland 1.19.35; Vet 50: Karen Cook 1.06.57; Vet 55: Lesley Westgate 1.23.29; Vet 60: Sue Nicholls 1.20.21.

Hestercombe Hurtle 5k: Male U18: Jamie Coles 17.23; Female U18: Rachel Langbein 19.55.