For the first time in a few years the decision to bring a coat on Tuesday was easily made. The mini heatwave created the prefect conditions for the spectators for the annual Mill Hill mile, although harder for the runners.

It was Adam Withers first time racing Mill Hill and the big decision at the start was which shoes would be the best to wear. He obviously choose well since he was the first EDAC runner to appear up the hill. He finished in an excellent time of 5.44 in 5th place. Jacob Crawford was close on his heels finishing in 5.49 and secured the top junior prize of the night. Alex Robinson was the next junior to appear. He left something in the tank to sprint the last 20-30m, always the best place to sprint in front of the throngs of spectators. He finished in 12th (4th junior) in a time of 6.14 taking a massive 48 seconds off last years’ time-not a bad time for a 14-year-old. Anna Gardiner seemed to glide up the hill next, completing the race in a time of 6.18 and in doing so secured both the top lady and top junior position. Ollie Robinson knew at the start that his training, which has concentrated on shorter distance recently, would make the hill hard. He still managed a respectable 16th position in a time of 6.27. Another U15 junior who is improving week on week is Thomas Magee. It was his second time doing this race and he also improved on last years’ time by 36 seconds finishing in 6.30.coming in 18th. The next three EDAC runners were all first timers. Daniel Giles, who normally runs longer distances, stepped up to the challenge finishing in comfortably in 6.40. The junior ladies Abigal Elliott and Erin Moore finished in 7.34 and 8.39 respectively and both said they weren’t put off and might enter next year. Maureen Kelly took 5 seconds off last year’s time. She has done this race for the last few years and seems to be getting faster each year. Patrick Smyth crossed the line in 9.28, ticking off one of the many local races he supports and advertises. The prize for the best smile running up the hill goes to Wayne Giles, who finished in 10.22. Despite health issues Joe Quinn, year on year, shows everyone what determination can do. Assisted by his daughter Karen he finished with the admiration and respect of everyone around.