By Leslie Ann Bent

Sunday marked the annual Comox Valley RV half marathon as part of the VIRA series. It was a popular race with 415 runners taking part. The rain held off for the event and runners had a dry window for racing. The website describes the course as a “rural out and back course with views of Mt. Washington, Forbidden Plateau and Tsolum and Puntledge Rivers. PBs are set on this course with a net downhill after the turnaround.” If you enjoy half marathons, this is a race not to be missed.

Six STARR members were out to compete. Steve Eriksen was our first STARR to cross the finish line with a time of 1:46:26. Close behind, breathing down Steve’s neck was our first female runner, Stephanie Croft 11 seconds behind with a time of 1:46:37. Bruce Hawkes didn’t disappoint with a first-place finish in the M80-84 age category. Melanie Eskildsen completed her first half marathon. Yay Melanie!

The VIRA series has been attracting a fast field this year and this race was no exception. The first runner to finish was Olympian Trevor Hofbauer (M30-34) of Peachland, BC with a time of 1:08:21. Christine Bant of Victoria led the female field, crossing the line with a time of 1:25:15. There were no course records this year. The top 12 runners all ran under 1:20.

Steve had this to say about the race. “The race was great. The hills were mild and gradual. The rain held off for us again. It was a bit chilly, but they also had chili, so that was lovely. A great route and a great turnout.”

STARR results

Steve Eriksen M45-49 1:46:26

Stephanie Croft F45-49 1:46:37 (7th)

Pauline Nielsen F50-54 1:55:09 (6th)

Maggie Curtis F50-54 2:02:31 (9th)

Melanie Eskildsen F40-44 2:09:53

Bruce Hawkes M80-84 3:17:39 (1st )

A huge congratulations to all of our runners. We’re very proud of you.