This year saw the 70^th Anniversary of the Pier Race by members of Southend Athletic Club.  The race is a handicap race which should if the handicapper does his job correctly – everyone should finish the race together.  That unfortunately did not happen – remind me to try harder!!

Why the pier – the instigator – John Tyler, a member of the club, nearly made it to the GB Athletics team.  He discovered that the pier’s boards aided his training regime .  Apparently, several tracks in the 1950s had wooden boards like the pier. 

So, he started the race for the benefit and enjoyment of the Club members and has up to recently been a staunch supporter if not organiser of the race.

Unfortunately, John now aged 92 was unable to be at the race as he suffered a stroke in October 2023 and is still convalescing. He was no doubt there in spirit.  37 hardy souls completed the course

Hope for the future – two 10-year-olds were 1^st and 2^nd back – Elliot Potton and Leo Hickey

At the other end of the age scale there were 2 men in their 70’s – Peter Binns and Bill Lee and one in his 80’s – Dave Rosser who was a race walker and competed for England at the Commonwealth Games in 1960’s/1970’s

As per usual there were 3 cups on offer – first person back – Elliott Potton (aged 10), fastest female – Izzy Carlin and fastest male – Adam Hickey.  All photos taken with June Cork – Club Secretary.

Pier Race Results 2024