2012 Club Handicap
Sporting heroes past and present turned up to take part in the Farnham Runners annual fancy dress Handicap race on New Year’s Day, hoping to extend the great British Summer of Sport on into 2013.
The recently knighted Bradley Wiggins took time off from celebrating and training to show he could turn his hand (or feet) to running too, as he posted the fastest time of the day (with help from Andrew Ellison). Team GB were further represented in a number of sports by the Ashby family (Elaine, Charles, Abigail and Oliver), who chatted to the crowds and waved Union Flags all round the 4.25 mile course.
Not to be outdone, Dave Bedford turned up three times over with his own look-a-like team sporting his number 118 (Jacquie Ashley-Collins, Emma Dawson and Christy Roxburgh).
Chairman Steve Kitney reinforced his authority over proceedings by insisting on running round with a chair strapped to his behind.
The sound of police sirens caused some concern at the start, as there was a known robber among the group (Tori Shaw), who had absconded with the coveted Handicap trophy but who returned it just in time.
A witch (alias Claire Entwistle) flew round to get a new club ladies’ course record. Robin Hood (Steve Gillingham) and a magician (Mark Gillingham) were on hand to sort out any problems.
First back by a large margin was a delighted Emma Dawson, who started with the club as a beginner in March. Beccy Martin underlined her recent improvement in second while the young Mark Gillingham, accompanied by father Steve came a very worthy third.
Other finishers in order: Christy Roxburgh, Tori Shaw, Tim Cummins, Robert Peet, Jacqueline Ashley-Collins, Andrew Ellison, Emma Doven, Ian Carley, Claire Entwistle, Richard Frost, Steve Kitney, the Ashby family.
The standard of entries in the fancy dress was high with a lot of work and thought going into many of the costumes. Team 118 collected top honours for co-ordination of their outfits, the robber came next with Wiggo having to settle for bronze position this time.
Mulled wine and homemade mince pies were provided by Elaine Ashby and Christy Roxburgh after the event.