THE Barry 40 Mile Track Race and Marathon has long held a record for athletic excellence.

However, this year, despite there still being less than perfect conditions, proved possibly the best yet. The quality of the field was known to be outstanding, and certainly delivered.

Leading the way was Michael Taylor (St Neots and the RAF). His 40 mile time of 3:53:04 demonstrated breathtaking consistency.

This broke the 21-year-old course record by 51 seconds and elevated Michael to World All-Time Number 6. The standard behind him had to be seen to be appreciated as last year's winner James Elgar finished 7 minutes quicker than in 2019, yet only finished sixth.

Ladies 40 Mile winner Helen James, from Loughborough won through stealth and consistency, taking the lead just prior to the 30 Mile mark. Former Dinas Powys resident, Veronica Singleton-Lawley won a hard-fought battle in the marathon in 3:55:52.

One of the most pleasing features of the day was the 100% survival rate - the first time this has happened – a remarkable testament to the fitness and determination of all concerned. However, no report of an event of this nature is complete without a lengthy list of acknowledgements.

Whilst the athletes themselves rightly claim the plaudits, the support crews are also heroes, especially when the weather is unpredictable.

Thank you to all the lap scorers for your attention to detail, our feed station attendants, to Mike Humphry from the local council for all his help, to the Vale of Glamorgan Council (especially Eryl) for the use of the stadium, to Martyn Morgan of Ajuda Events for first aid provision, to Gary and Pip Hyatt for all the refreshments on the day, to Welsh Athletics for their continued support, to Brian Williams (Chief Timekeeper), Keith Matthews (Race Starter) and as always, club stalwarts John Griffin (Race Referee) and Paul Stillman (photos).

34th Annual Barry 40 Mile Track Race

Sunday 1st March, 2020

Official Result

1. Michael Taylor M38 St Neots Riverside / RAF 3:53:04

2. Andrew Siggers M40 Kenilworth Runners 4:05:44

3. Adam Stokes M35 Bristol & West 4:07:19

4. Jez Bragg M38 Twemlow Track Club 4:18:42

5. Andrew Savery M37 Leamington 4:20:40

6. James Elgar M35 MMRT 4:23:20

7. Sam Richards M27 Pontypridd Roadents 4:34:54

8. Barry Miller M39 Poole AC 4:43:48

9. Rob Kestin M33 Port Talbot Harriers 4:43:03

10. Jeremy Mower M54 Gloucester AC 4:54:29

11. Matthew Ryan M44 Unattached 5:10:37

12. Dave Coles M60 Les Croupiers 5:18:47

13. Stu Wilkie M40 Hogweed Trotters 5:41:02

14. Helen James F47 100 Marathon Club 5:41:34

15. Chris Carver M56 Otley AC 5:44:13

16. Rachel Bowen F42 Lliswerry Runners 5:54:03

17. Steph Wilson F41 Pudsey & Bramley AC 5:55:11

18. Izzy Cairns F41 Tynebridge Harriers 6:46:24

4th Annual Barry Marathon Track Race

Official Result

1. Veronica Singleton-Lawley F59 Les Croupiers 3:55:52

2. David George M51 Les Croupiers 3:59:56

3. Ivan Field M56 100 Marathon Club 4:35:19

4. Loretta Daley F54 Les Croupiers 4:58:37