Runner from Qatar wins Whitchurch 10k

A RUNNER from Qatar has won the Whitchurch 10km at the third time of asking.

Tom Whateley, 33, who grew up in Reading but now lives in the Arab state, finished in 35 minutes and 53 seconds — a slower time than on the two previous occasions he has taken part in the annual race.

He said: “It’s a lovely course and not really one you do for the time — it’s more about appreciating the beautiful British countryside. It’s quite a refreshing sight for me because it’s mostly desert where I live now.”

Mr Whateley was among 178 people who took part in Sunday’s event, formerly known as the Toad Hall 10km. Competitors set off from Whitchurch Hill village green and headed south towards Hardwick Road in Whitchurch. They then ran east along Hardwick Road towards Mapledurham before heading back via Bottom Wood near Goring Heath.

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Click here to see more photographs of the runners.

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The first woman to finish was Heidi Price, of Reading Joggers, who finished in 46 minutes and 30 seconds.

There was also a 5km run around Whitchurch Hill and surrounding fields.

This was won by Kieran Tatum, 21, of Lackmore Gardens, Woodcote, who finished in 18 minutes and 59 seconds.

Susan Francis, 44, of Wallingford Road, Goring, was first woman to finish the 5km in 21 minutes and nine seconds.

The event raised about £2,500 for Whitchurch primary and pre-school.

Helen Bowsher, a member of the organising committee, said: “It was a great day, although it was very hot so a lot of people were suffering by the time they crossed the line.”

For the full results, see this week's Henley Standard.