Cracking run from Harrison brings up century of victories

Sue Harrison celebrates in style as she crosses the line for her 100th road race win. Picture submitted

Harrison’s impressive feat came from just 254 races over distances from 5k to 100k.

In addition to her victories she has been placed second on 52 occasions and third 22 times, giving her a total of 174 podium finishes.

Reflecting on her achievement, the 44-year-old Great Britain athlete said she could not have done it alone.

“I cannot thank my club, Leamington C&AC, enough for its invaluable encouragement and for making me a Life Member for my achievements,” said Harrison.

“My coach Les Barnett has not only been my coach since day one, but has been with me to nearly all my races, there to pat me on the back when it has gone well and to pick me up when it hasn’t.

“I couldn’t have achieved half of what I have without him or the support of my family.”

Harrison’s road race debut was in 1987 while still a junior athlete and her first win came in 1992 at the Rugby Ladies 10k.

As well as holding several Leamington C&AC track records, she possesses the club’s ladies’ road running best times at all distances from 5k to 100k.

She lists winning the 2010 IAU World 50k final for England in Galway as one of her proudest memories.

Her first attempt at a 50k race, she recorded a time of 3hr 15min 43sec to set a new UK and English national record and a World Masters record.

However, despite a career spanning four decades, Harrison has not lost any of the fire in her belly and plans to keep competing at the highest level.

“I am still training as hard as I did 20 years ago and I hope to keep on racing to the best of my capabilities for as long as I can,” she added.

“I will do the occasional shorter races but will continue to concentrate on ultra distance events as my main target.”

l Christmas Cracker report and slideshow online tomorrow.