Record-breaking teenager wins Olney annual pancake race at first attempt
THE annual Olney Pancake Race was won in a record breaking time by an 18-year-old who was taking part in the event for the first time.
Devon Byrne, whose mother has won the race three times, became the first woman to complete the course in under one minute, finishing in a time of 58.5 seconds.
There were 22 competitiors in this year’s race who were watched by more than 1,000 people who lined the streets of the town.
Miss Byrne was the first woman to complete the 415 yard course which finished outside the church.
Speaking at the end of the race, Miss Byrne said: “My legs hurt. I train at Milton Keynes Athletics Club so it goes with the territory.”
As well as the adult race, more than 150 children took part in the pancake race, which was sponsored by Teflon.
Teflon also provided a marquee in the centre of the town which hosted a cooking demonstration by former Ready, Steady, Cook chef Lesley Waters.
Wilbert Brocksmit, one of the Teflon organisers, said: “We had a great turnout and more competitiors and spectators than last year.
“We were lucky with the weather which was perfect for the race.
“It is a community event and it is great to see all the local people come out to support the runners.”
The Olney pancake race dates back to 1445 when a harassed housewife is said to have dashed to the church still holding her frying pan containing a pancake.
All competitors must be aged 18-years-old and above and lived in Olney for three months.
At the finish the winner is required to toss her pancake and is greeted with the words ‘the peace of the Lord be always with you’ spoken by the vicar and then receives a kiss from the verger.
A Shriving Service then takes place in the parish church of St Peter and St Paul from 12.15pm.
Revd Clare Wood said: “Shrove and shriving arise from shriven in which our sins, failings and mistakes are brought to God in the sure hope of his forgiveness.
“It enables us to begin the holy season of Lent with clear minds and hearts in preparation for the celebration of Easter.”
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Thursday 24 May 2012
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