He was joined by fellow-veteran Steve Hatfield in the second race in the Great Arete Midweek Series, at Moel Lus, Dwygyfylchi. Conditions were near perfect for the four-mile race, which involved 1,000 feet of climbing. Steve held a narrow lead at the top but Phil, always more comfortable descending, moved past him and finished 22 seconds clear in 34.02.
On Saturday Phil took on the much tougher Ras y Moelwyn, a 10.5 mile event with a total of 2,800 feet of climbing, which is acknowledged as one of the more gruelling mountain races in the area.
There were three major peaks and several boggy areas to negotiate, and the temperatures were close to zero in a biting wind. Phil was pleased with his time of 2-03, just three minutes down on last year, which placed him third in the M60 category.
This Saturday club captains are hoping for a good turnout for the Majestic Travel North Wales 10-mile championship in Wrexham in which the club has an excellent record going back many years.
On April 30 the club is hoping to conclude the Borders Road Running League with a flourish in the final fixture at Shotton. The four-mile race will be followed by the prizegiving, with several of the members in line for honours.
The first race in the club's summer handicap series will be held on May 7.
The club's Tuesday night track sessions are going well and runners of all standards are welcome to come along.