City of Norwich AC’s William Cork claimed victory at the Mike Groves 10K, race two in the 2026 Sportlink Grand Prix Series, after producing a strong run to cross the line in 31:56.
The race, hosted by Coltishall Jaguars and starting and finishing at Wroxham Barns, attracted a strong field as runners looked to build early-season momentum following the series opener at the Reedham Ten.
Cork finished ahead of Norwich Distance Squad lead coach James Senior, who secured second place in 32:13, while Wymondham AC’s Kyle Brooks took third in 32:40, setting a new personal best.
A marker of fitness
For Cork, the race served primarily as a useful early-season test of where his training currently stands.
“It was good fun,” he said after the race.
“It was a nice race at the front between me and James. We were sort of back and forth for the first 7K and then I managed to pull away in the last 3K.
“I just wanted to use the race today as a marker to see where my fitness was and I think it’s coming on nicely, so I’m pretty happy.”
Training with the Norwich Distance Squad
Cork is part of the highly competitive Norwich Distance Squad, where he trains alongside several of Norfolk’s leading endurance athletes — including Logan Smith, who will represent Great Britain at the World 50K Road Running Championships in Delhi next weekend.
“I spend most of the time at the moment chasing down Logan,” Cork said.
“It’s a really good training group and I’m just looking forward to cracking on with it.”
Smith’s rapid rise in recent seasons has provided plenty of motivation within the group.
“Every session I’m sort of getting a bit closer,” Cork added.
“He always gives you a good run for your money in sessions and races, so I’ll just keep trying to keep up with him over the next few months.”
Run Norwich on the horizon
Looking ahead, Cork admitted he has not yet fully mapped out his racing plans for the year, although one key event is already secured.
“I managed to get myself a Run Norwich place, which after speaking to people turns out to be quite a difficult thing to do,” he said.
“So I suppose I’ll be aiming towards that and maybe doing a few other bits and pieces in between.”
For now, though, the Mike Groves 10K provided a valuable benchmark and the chance to pick up important early points in the Sportlink Grand Prix Series.
With two races now completed, the series continues to build momentum as runners across Norfolk chase points, personal bests and strong performances throughout the 12-race season.
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