FOR the latest easing of Covid restrictions, it allowed a long-awaited presentation as winners of the EvenSplits 'Lockdown League'.

With competition on hold, the series saw over 30 clubs from across Yorkshire and beyond compete virtually across a range of distances and challenges during February and March.

And it was the Harriers, with 25 runners taking part over the eight weeks, who were crowned champions.

Kate Archer, with a perfect score of 500 points, and Sally Armitage (on 499) dominated the ladies standings to put the Harriers in pole position for the team prize.

But there were a whole host of other great performances across the board, and it saw Ilkley finish on 3,906 points, over 200 points clear of second-placed Valley Striders.

A bumper number of small groups went out on the moors after Tuesday's presentation, and several of them took on the challenge of the Jack Bloor fell race.

The event is usually held in early May but while that hasn't been possible this year, it is available as a virtual challenge throughout the month.

The Jack Bloor fund awards grants to young people who want to improve their skills in the outdoors, and more details on that and the route can be found at www.jackbloor.co.uk/

Several longer races have been able to take place by adapting to the latest guidelines and they include last Sunday's 'Shires & Spires Ultra', organised by Go Beyond.

A 35-mile circular route from Naseby, it featured a mixture of road running and muddy trails across farmland, with lots of gates and stiles to contend with.

Colin Williams was the sole Harrier to take part - one of 227 who went out three at a time in a staggered start.

It made it near impossible to tell during the race how you were doing compared to other runners but Williams was a fine 30th overall - and fifth in his M50+ age category - in a time of five hours, 39 minutes and 19 seconds.

The winner, Andrew Siggers of Kenilworth Runners, completed the course in 4:08:41.

Elsewhere a fine run was a key component of Ilkley Harrier Rhys Jones' third place at Llanelli Sprint Paratriathlon.

The British Triathlon Super Series event in South Wales featured an invited field of elite athletes and Jones was racing alongside new guide Rhys James.

They rounded off the swim, bike, run with a 19:13 5km and the performance sets Jones up nicely for the forthcoming Besancon World Cup.