Press Report 9th December 2025
VALENCIA MARATHON
Ilford AC Runners Excel at Valencia Marathon
Six athletes from Ilford Athletic Club proudly represented the club at the prestigious Valencia Marathon this weekend, delivering outstanding performances in a highly competitive international field.
Known for its flat and fast course, the race was made more challenging by hot conditions, yet the Ilford contingent rose to the occasion with personal and season’s bests across the board.
Leading the team home was Sam Rahman, who produced a strong run to finish in 2:46:49. He was followed closely by Tomas Krukauskas, recording an impressive 2:49:36. A landmark achievement came from Danny Holeyman, who broke the three-hour barrier for the first time with a superb 2:59:47, marking a significant milestone in his marathon career.
Not far behind, Richard Woolterton crossed the line in 3:09:24, while Diarmuid Mac Donnell battled through the heat to secure 3:29:43. Completing the team effort, Steve Lacey finished in 4:08:19, ensuring all six Ilford runners completed the course with determination and pride.
Ware Cup
LoughtonThe Annual Ware Cup, hosted by Loughton AC was held at Roding Valley Recreation ground last Saturday.
Following recent heavy rainfall the 7.8k course was very wet and muddy.Ilford entered a ladies Vets team, who enjoyed a 4th place finish on the day.Alison Sale led the team home in a time of 41:45 for 12th female. In 30th place was Frieda Keane in 52:06, followed closely by Launa Broadley in 54:29 for 32nd and Julia Galea in 56:03 for 34th
Social events
With the festive season upon us, and without the need of any permission from The Woodland Trust, 2 other long standing events in the clubs calendar were able to take place recently.
On November the 27th former Ilford AC race walkers held their annual pre Christmas meet up at ‘The Bull’ in Romford Market, and on Friday 5th December the club held its annual Curry Night at the Darjeeling Tandoori in Collier Row
