Rapid runners shine in 10k

WINNER Bruno Lima, centre, with Rob James second, (left) and Peter James who finished third

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THE Mayor of Oldham was on hand to start hundreds of runners in the challenging Oldham Milltown 10k run on Father's Day.

The rain held off as runners competed in the Oldham 10k which starts from the high street area of the town centre and takes participants on a journey through the town centre, Shaw and Royton before returning to the start point.

Bruno Lima finished first for the men with Rob James second and Peter James third, Jen Bloor was the first woman across the line with Kirsty White second and Caitlin Rice third with all finishing just over the 30 minute mark.

Mayor Derek Heffernan said: "I am astonished that the people running 10 kilometres up our hills in the times that they have done, it was just 30 minutes for the winner.

"Congratulations to Bruno and congratulations to Jen for winning the race and to all the runners who took part."

The race takes place on an extremely tough course that sees runners navigate energy-sapping hills and is part of the Oldham Milltown series which also includes a 7k and half marathon.

Jen Bloor said: "It was tougher then I thought, there were quite a lot of hills.

"There wasn't a downpour, and there were very good running conditions,

"The road closures and the traffic was done very well, the event was really well done by the organisers.

"It's a good event and it was a good morning all together."

The event was open to all and one father and son, Stephen (58) and James (27) Shelley, used the opportunity to celebrate Father's Day by completing the run.

James said: "There was a lot of hills, a lot more than we thought.

"It is quite a hard 10k because there are so many hills.

"I was doing it with my dad and he's done well, he's fitter then I am."

James' father decided to make life changes after risks to his health occurred a year ago and has now completed the 10k.

Stephen said: "I know it is a cliche but when death stares you in the face you start to think about your health a bit more.

"The run was very good, and I like the fact that it has hills in it.

"You have to work hard going up them."