Report submitted by DK Running Club

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD (DK) Running Club members are returning to regular race action with more events being held after Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted.

On Sunday 22 August five members of the Wall Heath-based club took part in the Vitality Big Half marathon in London. Graham and Lisa Avery, Claire Hancox, Lisa Mason and Kathryn Purslow were among thousands of runners who ran the capital’s streets.

It was a welcome return to normal as big crowds cheered on the runners who passed iconic sights, such as London Bridge, over the 13.1 mile course. On the same day (22 August) Dirk Baynham proudly wore the DK blue and white hoops during the 17 mile Llangollen Fell Race in north Wales.

Dirk lived up to his club nickname of ‘mountain goat’ as he tackled the demanding race, with 146 other runners, which included a lung-busting 3,000 metre ascent.

On Sunday 30 August several DK members ran the Spitfire 10K at RAF Cosford including Dianne Castree, Dan Davey, Bob Jones, Richard Jones and Richard Tonks.

First past the line for the Hoops was Richard Tonks in 40 minutes and one second, a personal 10K best for Richard. 1,500 runners took part in the race that passed by iconic aircraft including a VC 10, Hercules and Nimrod and finished with a sprint down the runway.

On Friday 10 September, at 7pm, DK Running Club will host the Gavin Tipper 5K Race with all proceeds going to Action Heart.

Gavin was a member of DK Rugby Club for many years and is part of DK Rugby history after scoring DK's only try at Twickenham. After retiring from the game he gave back to sport by coaching children at Black Country Triathletes, Tipton Harriers and Halesowen Cycling.

His encouragement of children in sport and passion for everybody taking part has made the Gavin Tipper 5K a popular annual race.

The annual race in memory of Gavin did not go ahead in 2020 because of coronavirus but is back this year. Entries, costing £10, can be made online at www.stuweb.co.uk DK Running Club meets at Dudley Kingswinford Rugby Club on Tuesday and Thursday evenings.

Groups leave for runs at 6pm and 7pm with a range of paces to suit everyone. There are also Sunday morning runs for those who want to run longer distances. The club caters for all running abilities, from beginners to more regular runners, and is open to potential new members who are welcome to try out a test session.

If interested, send an email to dkrunning@gmail.com with your current pace per mile and the club will pair you with a suitable running group.