by Geoff Watkin

Ryde Harriers, Matt Sharp and Chris Newnham, both had great runs in the Saucony London 10k (6.2mile) through the main parts of the city in a huge field of 18,000 runners.

From the gun, Matt was soon into his running and matching stride for stride with Seyfu Jamaal as they passed the first kilometre in a fast 2m 53s.

Despite Sharp’s attempt to drop Jamaal, the Ethiopian-based youngster, increased his pace as the finish approached to record a time of 29m 41s for the victory, and Matt was pipped on the line for 2nd place by the American, Jared Ward, who had finished 6th in the Rio Olympics. His recorded time was 29m 47s.

Chris finished in 12th place, from the 18,000 participants, in 32m 25s, and was disappointed not to get inside of his personal best.