New Asthma UK race a hit with hundreds
18 April 2006

More than 700 people took part in the first ever Asthma UK 10K road race on Easter Saturday.

Dorney Lake, Windsor, was the venue, home of the Great Britain rowing team and host site for the London Olympics 2012, its long paths around the lake forming a 10km course ideal for athletes of all abilities.

Runners enjoyed the long, even stretches, with many achieving personal best times, cheered on by more than 1,500 spectators. The slightly gloomy bank holiday weather, with overcast skies and a slight breeze, was for once welcome, providing conditions ideal for running.

An Easter Egg Hunt proved a very popular attraction for the younger onlookers, who searched for chocolate eggs among the grass and bushes.

Participant Alec Raven, 30, finished the course in 52 minutes as part of his training for next week's London Marathon: 'I really enjoyed the race - it was well organised and a great day out, as well as being excellent preparation for the marathon next week. I'll definitely be taking part again next year.'

Sarah Isted, 36, (pictured) who has a bricanyl infusion to treat her severe asthma, took slightly longer to complete the course but was determined to cross the line: 'It was quite a challenge for me, but I had a fantastic time and felt enormous personal achievement at the end.'

'We’ve been delighted by the huge support for this new event,' said Asthma UK's Event Manager Gary McGinn. 'People clearly enjoyed the setting and the timing of the race, with the opportunity to have a family day out on Easter Saturday.

'We're extremely grateful for the fantastic support from so many volunteers, without whom we just wouldn’t have been able to put on this event: over 50 people gave up their day to help. We’ve already started planning for 2007!'

Overall winner in a time of 32 mins and 39 seconds was Richard Lee from Swadlincote, Derbyshire, who was awarded his prize by Eastenders actor Russell Floyd.

The women’s overall winner, Michelle Lee (no relation), from Padbury in Buckingham, finished in 33 mins and 55 seconds. She received the Jeni Allnutt Trophy - a new award for the female winner, established by John Kelly as a tribute to his partner Jeni, a keen runner, who tragically died of asthma.