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ASICS Fleet Pre-London Half Marathon News

17 March 2008: Horrendous weather fails to dampen enthusiasm

Some said it was the worst weather in the 27-year history of the Fleet Half Marathon. In any case, there were scenes reminiscent of a Glastonbury summer but after three years of superb weather it was time for some rain and mud. However, runners and supporters around the course turned out to make the 2008 ASICS Fleet Pre-London Half Marathon a special occasion.

Just under 2,000 runners completed the 13.1 mile race, a lower than usual turnout but hardly surprising given the conditions. The rain relented for the race itself but runners were met by some strong winds during the latter part of the course. As a result the winning times were slightly slower than usual but many runners have reported achieving personal bests.

The winner of the men’s race was Neil Chisholm from Thames Hare & Hounds in 70.14 followed by Tim Crossland of Leeds City and Nigel Leighton of Bristol & West. The ladies race was won by Helen Decker of Ipswich Jaffa in 80.43 followed by Tamsin Clark of AMD and Debbie Cosslett of the Army.

The Royal Navy won the men’s team event while the Army ladies took first place in their event.

The fastest runners from Fleet & Crookham AC were James Allen in 78.59 and Lisa Hale in 96.50.

The race has received excellent feedback from runners who have noted the strength of the support of the local population. The race relies on the support of Fleet residents and despite the terrible weather they turned out around the course to support the runners. The event has become an important one in the local area as well as a major national running event. The organisers with to thank the people of Fleet for their continued support of the race which provides major health & wellness benefits as well as raising substantial funds for local and national charities.

The main sponsor for the event is ASICS, the international sports company. Local sponsors are Amazon Windows, Hart District Council and Thomas Day Motors. We are also happy to welcome 96.4 Eagle Radio, the local radio station who will be adding to the race atmosphere with the Love Crew. The sponsors' contribution is vital to ensure the race maintains its renowned respect within the athletics arena and amongst the people of Fleet.

The Fleet Half Marathon is one of the UK’s most popular and prestigious half marathons. Founded in 1981, the same year as the London Marathon, the race has attracted top runners and many thousands of runners have completed the fast course. At the same time, charities have benefited from runners raising thousands of pounds.

For more information contact publicity@fleethalfmarathon.com.

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www.fleethalfmarathon.com

ENDS