A LARGE group of Hayle Runners travelled to Norway to take part in the Polar Night Half Marathon. Polar Night Half Marathon is the largest winter race in Norway with over 1200 runners from more than 35 different countries.

The Polar Night Half Marathon is held in the city of Tromsø which is situated above the Arctic Circle and is renowned to be a fabulous place to see the northern lights.

The polar night period in Tromsø lasts from November 21st until January 21st. During this time of year the area has a few hours of daylight and the average January temperature is minus 5.6 degrees. This year the Polar Night Half Marathon started at 3pm local time in the City Centre, and track was covered with snow and ice. Whilst competitors can use regular running equipment, the organisers recommend portable spikes for the slippery surface.

The event itself included three races; Half-Marathon, 10K or 5 K and Hayle Runners had the largest international representation in the Half Marathon and 10k. Matt Curtis lead the team home in the half Marathon and was the third Briton in the race. Jackie O'Keeffe was first Hayle Runner in the 10k.

Hayle Runners' half marathon results: Matt Curtis: 1.35.36, Steve Cooling: 1.40.04, Nick Masters: 1.40.51, Nikki Rudd: 2.06.28, Diane Warren: 2.07.05, Simon Chapman: 2.11.14, Mel Billington: 2.17.32, Susan Chapman: 2.22.58, Sara de Barros: 2.23.30, Glynnis Turner: 2.32.11, Carol Culley: 2.32.13, Susie Mackintosh: 3.06.36, Helen Mills: 3.06.37. 10K: Jackie O'Keeffe: 1.04.00, Debra Coldrick: 1.28.03, Sarah Painter: 1.29.25.