First England Vest – Sunday 15 May 2022
The focus this weekend is on Queen Elizabeth II, but take a moment from the Platinum Jubilee to celebrate our very own running queen Jude Nutt. A member of Elswick since she was a child, Jude continues to serve her club, and now her country, having gained her first England vest for the Chester Half Marathon.
Jude’s journey to Chester began on 11 October 2021 when she ran Manchester Half Marathon in 1 hour 25, which gained her qualification into the England Athletics Masters team for the representative race of Chester Half Marathon. England Athletics devised the the Masters Programme of competition several years ago in recognition that a high proportion of running club members are aged 35 and over. The Masters Age events are intended to reward our veteran runners for the significant contribution they make to the sport.
Noting that another north east runner (Kathryn Stevenson, Tynebridge Harriers) had also qualified at Manchester Half, Jude approached Kathryn and offered to drive her to Chester. The pair travelled and stayed together in Chester which saved Jude a lonely trip without her family. Younger sister Sarah, who lives in Manchester, came across to spectate and support Jude.
The course is attractive, taking in the historic town centre and some leafy surrounding areas. However, it’s got its undulations, not least a long climb back to the town centre towards the end of the race. Despite that, Jude still pulled off another magnificent time, 1.25.57, 7th F40 and fourth in her category (F35-44) in the England Athletics Masters Race.
Never one to boast, Mike and I had to agree to an “easy” run with Jude to extract the story of her Chester experience. She is rightly proud of her achievement and has even treated herself to some of the official England kit. Her plan is to qualify again in order to compete as a F45-54 next year. The only qualifying race in the north is the Brass Monkey and the representative race will again be held at Chester Half Marathon in May 2023.
Feeling inspired? Check out the England Athletics website for information about the rolling programme of qualifying events and representative opportunities to run in an England Age Group Masters vest.
Congratulations Queen Jude and good luck with your next England Masters competition. I am positive you’ll be wearing that England vest again very soon.
