Heanor RC were missing a number of key performers but still managed to field a complete team for the English National 12 Stage Road Relays last weekend.
The yellow and blue missed the chance to make a mark last month with the Midlands 12 Stage Relays being cancelled due to snow. With the weather no longer a disruptive issue, a depleted team performed valiantly at Sutton Park, Birmingham.
Mark Powell set the team on its way on the opening leg; the first of six long legs of approx. 5 miles distance ran alternately with short legs of just over 3 miles. Powell performed well, bringing the team home in 38th position amid a high-quality field.
Club stalwart Tony Weatherson (17:34) followed Mark on leg two before handing over to relay debutant Shane Rice, who ran superbly to bring the team home 56th in 30:59.
Virgin London Marathon-bound Paul Clarke (16:52) sharpened up for next weekend by running the fastest short leg for HRC and, following the efforts of Ed Godber (38:40) and Tim Simpson (18:43), the team lay 73rd at halfway.
A consistent showing in the second half of the race from Ashley Deeming (31:36), Paul Mercer (19:40), Steve Ashmore (31:59), Garry Cooper (19:12), Jon Curtis (37:39) and Steve Wardle (21:28) saw the team maintain their position and finish 71st overall.