Bell claims victory in Women’s 10K
Rolanda Bell put the disappointment of finishing third in the Elite Women’s mile behind her to win the Bermuda Marathon Weekend women’s 10K on Saturday.It proved to be a comfortable win for the Panamanian who beat defending champion Korene Hinds, of Jamaica, by 55 seconds in a time of 36 minutes and 27 seconds.Hinds, who won the Elite Women’s mile on Friday night, stopped the clock in 37.22, some 50 seconds head of her compatriot Mardrea Hyman who finished third.The less than ideal race conditions were reflected in the finishing times with Bell crossing the line almost two and half minutes slower than Hinds managed to in last year’s race.Bell, who finished third in her 10K debut 12 months ago, reckoned the course seemed less daunting second time around.“I ran last year and I had my mind set on what had to be done,” said the 24-year-old. “The course seemed to run easier this time, but I wanted to give a good effort at the very beginning and look to hold on in the later stages.“The two girls went out early and I went with them knowing it would be a telling blow early if I hadn’t gone with them, so that worked in my favour.“The conditions were challenging, especially up hill, there was a guy in front of me so I drafted behind and that worked just great for me.“In the end it was a good race, I got through it on the right side and I’m pleased with the race.”Hinds admitted she was disappointment to surrender her 10K crown, but said she always knew Bell would be a threat.“It was tough out there, the conditions were a bit windy, but I’m happy with my time and results,” she said. “It was always going to be a close race and it’s unfortunate I couldn’t be the one first across the line.
