Four consecutive days of tough racing makes the Lanzarote Challenge a gruelling task for any athlete, and to complete all four races is an incredible achievement.

Barnet and District AC's Pauline Lygo not only accomplished this, but finished second in each of her races, giving her overall second place in her over-55 age group. The fact that the winner was a former international is a pointer to the high standards set.

On the first day, Lygo ran in a 10km road race. That was followed the next day by a ridge run of 15km, and on the third day by a 5km beach run.

Though the beach run is the shortest distance, it's a battle with a demoralising surface as each step is sucked into the sand. The finale on the fourth day provides a true test of iron will, a 23km trans-island run.

There was no time to enjoy Lanzarote's volcanic scenery, and the heat was searing, adding to the challenge.

Lygo was delighted with the result.

She had been training hard in preparation, and had recently returned a personal best for a half-marathon.

Lygo was not alone in representing Barnet in the Lanzarote. Alan Harvey, Ian Gibbs, Sue Gibbs and Brenda Harvey also ran in the 10km race, and other selected events.

Returning from injury, Brenda Harvey did particularly well to complete the 15km ridge run and the 5km beach run.

Barnet's coach Maggie Govender also ran in the 10km road race, achieving a fine fourth place, and winning the over-55 age group.

December 12, 2001 18:16