New York Baby!!
The big race of the weekend was in the Big Apple where eight Tone Zone runners took part in the New York marathon. In ideal running conditions, Nina Baldwinson was the first to finish for the club with an impressive 3.47.29. Afterwards she said that it was a truly amazing day and she was pleased with her time after a couple of injuries due to a fall in training only a week ago. Next up was Neil Studwick in 3.56 closely followed by Andy Mair with Mark Williamson just behind at 4.30.
Making his marathon debut was Neil Pacey, who understandably was feeling apprehensive before the start. Luckily he had his wife, sole mate and vastly experienced marathon runner, Debs to keep him going. The race started really well for them both with an even pace through the opening 18 miles but as Neil's legs tired and the course toughened with a couple of cheeky little hills he started to struggle. With Deb's encouragement he dug in and finished in 4.46. Speaking later he said "Anyone thinking about running a marathon then do The New York Marathon! The crowds from start to finish were amazing!! To say I'm now a marathon runner and to have experienced the atmosphere today is something I will truly treasure". Grace Natoli completed her run in 4.56 and also making her debut was Bushka Skladanek with a time of 5.11
Bognor Tone Zone Runners Results
New York Marathon: Nina Baldwinson 3.47.29; Neil Strudwick 3.56.13; Andy Mair 4.08.25; Mark Williamson 4.30.44; Debbie Pacey 4.46.26; Neil Pacey 4.46.27; Grace Natoli 4.56.08; Bushka Skladanek 5.11.23