Adrian Marriott wins Gloucester 50km race in a course record and 7th fastest all time by a Brit.
Last Sunday, 22nd January, Yeovil based GB international marathon runner Adrian Marriott made his ultramarathon debut at the Gloucester 50km race.
On a blustery day with winds gusting over 25mph Marriott, who runs for Wells City Harriers, tackled the undulating course with his traditional front running commitment. Breaking clear of the field in the second mile he continued to build his lead during the first 2 hours of the race as he pursued the holy grail of ultrarunning – a sub 3 hour clocking for the 50km distance.
With fellow marathon international Steve Way leading the chase there was no opportunity to relax the pace, even into the strong winds and on the steepest hills of the 4 lap course.
Despite slowing slightly in the closing miles, as the fast early pace took its toll Marriott ran strongly to the finish, crossing the line in a time of 3 hours and 47 seconds to break the course record and secure qualification for the IAU World Trophy Final in Italy on 20th October.