Sunday, October 18th 2009

Birchfield Harrier Jean Ndayisenga won the 13th University of Birmingham 5km Road race in a time of 14min 40sec, with Matthew Armstrong from Coventry Godiva finishing second, 10 seconds behind him. Julius Mutuilu was third. Rob Andrew of Bournville Harriers was the first vet home, also finishing eighth overall in the race.

The women’s race was won by Kidest Lema in 17min 25sec, with Emma Phillips second in 18min 19sec and Rachel Wood third. Carolyn Wilkinson of Spa Striders won the women’s vets prize and also finished fifth in the race.

The 2km Fun Run was won by Paul Thacker from Stafford, with 10year-old Gus Iliff the first boy under-16 home, and 13-year-old Helen Porter taking the under-16 girls prize.

About 500 people took part to raise money for the Acorns Children’s Hospice, Selly Oak, Birmingham. David Strudley, Acorns Chief Executive, presented the prizes.

Pete Hinton, Race Organiser, said: “We had wonderful weather and a wonderful turn which underlined the popularity of this event. I must thank all the runners and helpers for their support.”