THERE was a thrilling conclusion to the Bourton Mile last weekend as Ben Robinson pipped training partner Richard De Camps to the line, picking up the Gloucestershire county title in the process.
Robinson, from the Bristol & West club, who had already won the Berkeley 10km and mile only four days earlier, led from the start and maintained his advantage to cross the line in 4min 31sec.
Robinson, who won the Bourton Mile in 2021 said: "Richard and I ran neck and neck the whole way. Once I’d committed myself, I had to stay in front and defend every move he made."
For De Camps, a winner in 2018 and 2019, this was his fifth time on the podium and although he was credited with the same time as Robinson, he was gracious in defeat.
"We train together so I know Ben’s a stronger runner. I had to rely on my finishing speed but he found something extra to hold me off."
The race also capped a remarkable week for Kate Telford, from Cheltenham’s CLC Striders, who took the women’s title in 5min 40sec, in what was her first attempt at a road mile.
Telford, who won the women’s race at the Berkeley 10km, said: "I’m used to running marathons. Having never raced a mile before, my tactic was just to run as fast as I could for as long as I could. It was that simple. But I really enjoyed it so I’ll definitely be back."
The sentiment was echoed by runner-up, Tracy Hinxman from Gloucester AC, who finished two seconds back in 5min 42sec.
"It was a good event," she said. "I love running in Bourton on the Water. For me, this is as fast a course as you’re going to get. It’s in the prettiest village, the race is well organised and it’s a lovely place to come."
There was no greater endorsement than that offered by the inspirational 16-year-old Felix Thompson, a regular in the mile, who stepped out of his wheelchair for the finale of the race with mum, Christine.
"That was great," said Thompson. "I think I’ve beaten my time from last year and I’ll be back to do it again next year."
The event – which saw 176 finishers - was a triumph for Bourton Roadrunners, who took over the organisation from Norm and Ali Lane, who stepped down after establishing this road mile more than 20 years ago.
Race Director, Gill Carrick added: "It’s an honour for the club and the village to host the county championships for the mile and we were treated to a very good race. We hope the best athletes from Gloucestershire and beyond will keep coming, to chase fast times and even break some records."
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