City of Norwich AC’s Logan Smith and Mabel Beckett claimed impressive victories at the North Norfolk Beach Runners’ Worstead 5 Mile event on Friday evening as race 8 in the Sportlink Grand Prix Series delivered another night of top-level competition.
Smith, fresh from his recent Wroxham 5K win and a string of standout performances, was in dominant form once again, powering home in 24:02.
“It was a PB so I’m very happy,” Smith said. “I thought maybe we could dip under 24 minutes so I was just off that, but I’m really happy in the warm conditions.”
His clubmate William Cork secured second place in 25:06, while Martyn Bath of Norwich Road Runners, who won the Flying 5K just a week ago, claimed third in 25:37.
In the women’s race, Mabel Beckett returned to winning ways with a brilliant run of 29:08, leading home a competitive field and continuing a fine season in CoNAC colours.
“The last time I did it, I completely died – everyone came past me, so I just didn’t want that to happen this year,” said Beckett. “I beat Mitch (Dann) as well, so happy days!”
Jo Andrews of Bungay Black Dog RC – a regular contender in the Grand Prix – was second in 29:53, with Louise McDonnell of Wymondham AC third in 31:57.
Held in the heart of the Norfolk countryside, the Worstead 5M once again offered a scenic but fast course, cheered on by spectators enjoying the village festival atmosphere.
The Sportlink Grand Prix Series now rolls on to its penultimate event – the Great Yarmouth Half Marathon – before the season finale in Dereham.