WHILE his younger brother was tackling the boards at the world indoor championships, Lee Garland was making an impressive debut over 20 miles in winning the GIAAC’s annual Church to Church.
The versatile athlete, who has competed at island level in events ranging from sprint hurdles to triple jump to steeplechase, was one of many using the club’s longest annual race to prepare for a spring marathon.
He finished two minutes clear of Richard Stapley in 2hr 5min. 34sec., while Colin Ozanne was third, a further minute behind.
Garland, who has been plagued by injuries in recent times, was relieved to get over the line unscathed.
‘I’m really pleased to have won, but even more pleased to have got through the race in one piece as it’s further than I’ve ever raced before,’ he said.
‘I knew it would be tough, but Richard and Colin set the right pace and that helped me to get around the course.’
Carol-Ann Stapley continued her steady improvement and was the leading woman of six, finishing in a shade over three hours and five minutes ahead of Emma Nicolle. Colette Andrews was third.
The field was bolstered by runners targeting marathons such as the Flora London one.
Sue Nicolle and and Shauna Clapham, who intend to run for the Children with Leukaemia appeal in London next month, were joined by colleague Emma Smith, who had flown in from the UK especially,
Further up the field former island cricket captain Andy Biggins was another to show he is progressing well ahead of his first marathon.
He clocked 2-42.01 for 12th place.
GIAAC’s endurance officer Paul Ingrouille was pleased with the response from the marathon hopefuls.
‘We have always tried to schedule this event five to six weeks before London, so it can be used in preparation. It was good to see so many new faces among the field.
‘With Easter so early this year our four-day festival will also provide an opportunity for runners to top off their preparations with a choice of fully affiliated organised races.’
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