Picture gallery: Fundraiser held in memory of popular Saffron Walden teacher inspires runners of all ages
The first lap. - Credit: Archant
More than 200 runners took part in a fundraiser inspired by a popular teacher.
The Great Westgarth Run, on Sunday, saw people from age three to those in their 60s take on the course around Friends’ School fields.
The event, in aid of Cambridgeshire branch of the Motor Neurone Disease Association, was held in memory of Sue Westgarth, a much-loved teacher who was diagnosed with the disease in 2009. Sue died in 2010.
It raised over £3,000 for MNDA, with representatives from the Cambridgeshire branch attending and Jay Griffiths, actor and member of the local Yak Yac running group, presenting awards to the first, second and third places in each race.
Stef Godfrey, organiser of the event and member of Friends’ School PTA said: “Sue Westgarth, who was a runner herself, started the school’s very successful running club nine years before she was sadly diagnosed with MND.
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“She always gave every runner enormous encouragement, from those who were beginners to our aspiring runners and cross-country athletes.
“We wanted to continue to help the fight against this dreadful disease and pay tribute to a wonderful teacher who’s influence is ongoing and continues to inspire her past students.
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“Special thanks to all our sponsors, to those who donated prizes and to everyone who came out to join us in the glorious sunshine and support the event.”
Craig Dyce was first man home in 19mins 16secs.
Hannah Irwin, a former pupil of Sue’s, won the ladies 5km with a time of 20mins 13secs, which was a fitting and emotional tribute to her former running teacher.
This win, on the back of winning the 1,500m at Chelmsford the day before to become Essex 1,500m Champion, was a remarkable achievement for 15-year-old Hannah.
In the 5km, Charlie Bullen was second male and Zachary Deller was third.
In the ladies’ race, Abigail Lewis was second and Corinne Pooley third.
The winner of the 1km fun run was Barnaby Knight with Finn Leuzzi in second place and Lily Godfrey in third.
