SCORES of runners pounded the pavements - and the hills - to compete in the popular Eston Nab Challenge Race on Teesside.
The event sees men and women tackle a challenging route from Eston square through the hills to the peak of the Nab, before heading back to the town for the triumphant finish.
The 10k race was won by Yohannes Eyob, 28, originally from Eritrea now living in Middlesbrough and the 5k race winner was Paul McDermott, 53, from Saltburn.
Yohannes Eyob celebrates his victory
Mr Eyob said: “It was very tough. It’s a very steep hill but I won already. So I’m happy with that.”
As chair of Redcar Running Club, Mr McDermott is no stranger to competitive running, but this was his first victory.
He said: “I haven’t won a race in my life, so it’s a nice change to win one. Especially when I’m over 50.
“The race was alright apart from the hill climb. I’m a road runner so as I hit the flat or downhill it’s quite easy for me in some ways.”
Other notable results included 70 year-old Dave Gibson crossing the line as the first veteran to finish the 5km race, Alison Innerd being the first woman to return in the 5km race and Kimberley Skiba being the first woman to finish in the 10km race.
Alison Innerd
There was a heart-warming moment for local couple Michael and Catherine Farn who chose to spend their fifth wedding anniversary at the race and, somewhat fittingly, crossed the finish line together.
Councillor Karen King, deputy leader of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, said: “Congratulations to Yohannes and Paul and the rest of the runners.
“I hope they all enjoyed the race and the amazing views from the Eston Hills.
“The race will be back next year and I hope our winners will also be back to defend their crowns.”
Michael and Catherine Farn on their fifth wedding anniversary
Event sponsor SABIC’s site director Daren Smith said: “Congratulations to all those that took part in the SABIC Eston Nab Challenge this year, you should all be very proud of your individual achievements.
“It’s such a great event, that we are delighted to support.
“Well done to the winners, participants and all those involved in organising the race, we look forward to the event in 2020 now.”
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