James beats clock to land Dash crown

DASH DELIGHT: James Whitehouse, of Birchfield Harriers, was crowned the winner of the 2010 Techstep Lichfield Cathedral Dash on Saturday.

The win was particularly satisfying for the 22-year-old on two counts. First, he beat the noon chimes with a time of 58secs (the chimes officially last for 58.6secs). Second, he ran in the 2008 race around Cathedral Close and was tripped on the final bend, finishing third after being in the lead.

Adrian Priest, senior product manager at sponsors Techstep, said: "It was great to see faces both young and not so young enjoying themselves in this truly unique event.

"Not even a little rain could dampen the enthusiasm of the crowd, who saw some superb performances, especially by James, who beat the chimes."

James Whitehouse is pictured outside the cathedral with his trophy.