March 31st, 2001, North Vancouver – After several years of dry weather, cold rain fell on the competitors at this year’s North Shore 5k. Despite the unpleasant climate, a strong competitive field turned out for this fifth event of the 2001 Series, and the accompanying half marathon.

Colin Dignum showed improved fitness by claiming victory over previous rivals Shane Bilodeau and Norm Tinkham, who were relegated this time to third and fourth spots, respectively. Young (20-24 group) Matthew Coley grabbed the second place award, while junior star Chris Winter followed Tinkham for fifth overall and a personal best for 5k.

10,000m Olympian Tina Connelly made one of her brief appearances on the Series scene and dominated the field as she has in past visits. Next woman across the line was Nancy Tinari, steadily collecting more top points for her Series rankings both overall and in the masters 40-44 category. Third spot went to Cari Rampersad, with Darcie Montgomery and Jackie Holloway filling out the top five.

Top three junior men were Winter, Danny Loeppky and Ryan Weber, with Thomas Skinner just behind. Junior women to take top spots were Rachel Hartwick, Amanda Hall, and Colleen Mahoney.

First male master to complete the new out and back route was 45-49 age grouper Dave Reed, followed by 40-44 speedsters Rick Hickson and Ken Bell in the next two overall positions. Tinari and Holloway were one and two for the masters women, with the bronze going to Leslie Black.

For full results see Race Headquarters.