Runners flock to Bowood for 10k run in the sun (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Runners flock to Bowood for 10k run in the sun

9:17am Tuesday 3rd April 2012 in Calne By Tom Mooney

Almost 300 people took part in what is said to be the most picturesque 10k race in the south west, at Bowood.

The Rotary Club of Calne’s annual fun run, which is now in its 24th year, attracted runners from across the south of England.

The race, sponsored by Patford House Surgery, was won for a third year in succession by Calne teenager Simon Nott.

The 18-year-old also broke the course record, shaving 31 seconds off his previous best, finishing in 32 minutes, 12 seconds – more than three minutes ahead of his nearest challenger.

The women’s race was won by Elisa Barr, from London, in 45 minutes, 14 seconds.

And Devizes-based Adam Stevens won the under-16 category in 40 minutes, 27 seconds.

The Rotary Club said the event, which has been held at Bowood for the past five years, is likely to raise in excess of £1,500 for charity.

The money will be split between Wiltshire Blind Association and Calne Welfare Charities.

Rotarian Graham Smith said runners flock to the event because of the surroundings of Bowood.

He said: "We used to hold the run in various venues around Calne.

"About five years ago we held it on some land around the edge of Calne, with parts on Bowood land. And the problem we had always had with running on public roads was organising policing and health and safety.

"To overcome that, Lord Lansdowne very kindly asked us to think about holding it entirely at Bowood.

"Initially we did it for just one year to see how it went.

"We were very pleased, so was he, so we have continued to hold it there.

"Since then it has become an extremely popular venue.

"I would think it is probably the nicest 10km run in the south west – the surroundings are beautiful.

"We were very pleased with the turnout on the weekend once again. It was a great run and I think everyone enjoyed themselves."

Early registration is already open for next year’s run.

Email Alastair Muir at calnefunrun@aol.com for details.