RADCLIFFE runners have competed in the Central Lancs Grand Prix, which has taken place throughout 2002.

Starting with Radcliffe's own 10k race, the series comprised seven road runs, ranging from five miles to half-marathon, a runner's best five races counting in the final analysis. Radcliffe AC members figured in the standings reasonably well considering they were up against some much bigger clubs.

Sixth overall, and a pleasing second amongst the over 45 age group was Adrian Harris, who has had a good year's running.

Adrian trains hard to maintain his high standards and deserves his successes.

David Bartlett has shown flashes of good form all year, yet his fellow runners were left feeling he could stay at a better level. He was 24th and must be looking optimistically at events in 2003.

David actually finished one place ahead of Alec Steele, who was sixth over-50 in a result list rather over-crowded with veteran runners. It points to David's potential that he managed to mix it with Alec and finally match him.

In 28th place and tenth among the over 40s, was Mark Emmett, whose season is a story of gradual improvement after a slow start through injury. If he stays healthy, he will do well, because he has shown he is prepared to make a good effort in training. Iain Harris was 32nd and eighth over-50 -- a good consistent year from him -- followed by Alan Sumner, second over-55 being a good result from a year in which he always gave of his best.

Tom West was 38th and second over-60. It's great to compete at all when you are 60, but Tom is keeping up a decent standard among his age group, earning respect from his rivals. He was followed in by Tony Meakin, seventh over 45 and a consistently cheerful supporter of Radcliffe AC. It is an achievement in itself to actually get enough races under your belt, and Tony scored over all the others who failed to clock up the necessary five events.

Radcliffe had two ladies in the final standings. Glenda Garry, in her first year with the club, popped up as third over-40, tenth overall, a most pleasing result. Eileen Royle won the over-50s section, 12th overall, confirming her consistent standards over the years.