Percy Pud 10km : 2009 Race Report
Sunday 6th December 2009

Percy Pud race goes swimmingly despite the wind and rain

The start of the annual Percy Pud 10km race along the Loxley Valley was delayed for 20 minutes so marshals could try to unclog drains, clear some of the water and cone off some of the bigger, deeper pools. Race director Richard Dunk wished all runners "a good swim" before officially signalling the start of the race on Sunday.

More than 1,500 runners from Sheffield and across the region braved the wet and windy weather to join the race, which was won by Andy Ward of Clowne running club and Alice Cordwell of the Hallamshire Harriers.

Andy said: "The rain didn't bother me and I was surprised to be able to run clear of Darren Bilton (second place) early in the race. The cheers from other runners and spectators definitely helped spur me on. This is the first time I've run Percy Pud and it's certainly a well organised race with a great atmosphere."


Andy Ward finishing the race in first place

Strider Carol Beattie looking strong near finish

Father Christmas leads the way!

Alice – first woman over the line – is just 18 and studies at Notre Dame High School in Sheffield. She has had a successful season running cross country races for the Hallamshire Harriers.

Percy Pud, one of the most popular running events of the festive season, is organised by the Steel City Striders running club. All runners that complete the race are rewarded with a Christmas pudding. Richard Dunk said, "The Percy Pud keeps getting more and more popular because of its great setting and festive atmosphere. It's gone from strength to strength, so much so that the race now sells out within two weeks of opening for entries."

Among those taking part was Sheffield Central MP and former Sports Minister Richard Caborn. The oldest runner was 83 and fundraisers included a team of 10 from local hairdressers Taylor Taylor, who were running for Breast Cancer Care.

Published in Sheffield Telegraph on 10th December 2009