Alton Runners have got their 2024-25 Southern Cross Country League campaign off to an impressive start in the opening race of the season at Benyon’s Inclosure near Silchester.
The race, which was hosted by Basingstoke & Mid Hants Athletic Club, saw 22 local running clubs tackle the five-mile course, which ended with a splash through a ford just half a mile from the finish.
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The league brings together clubs from across the south, with fixtures from November to March.
Alton Runners put forward a strong team of 32 athletes which showed good form and team spirit.
Alton Runners men’s team captain Christian Coles was chuffed with the turnout. He said: “Nothing like a cross country race to bring the Alton Runners team together – amazing turnout.”
The weather was dry and mild – for November – with the course featuring some muddy patches and puddles.
Alton Runners had a cracking start to the cross country season, with the men’s team finishing fifth and the women’s team fourth, leaving the club in third place overall in the league standings.
Alton’s Dylan Poulton won the race, setting a strong tone for the club this season.
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The next Southern Cross Country League fixture is on Sunday, November 24, at Alice Holt Forest, giving Alton Runners a more local challenge.
Later in the season, the club will host its own event on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at the historic and picturesque grounds of Chawton House.
With the season opener done and dusted, Alton Runners are looking forward to months of mud, camaraderie and competitive spirit across a number of different scenic cross country courses.
Alton Runners are a friendly and inclusive running club which welcomes runners of all abilities – from beginners to seasoned runners.
The club, which participates in the Hampshire Road Race League and the Southern Cross Country League, holds training sessions on Tuesday and Thursday evenings – typically at Jubilee Fields and Anstey Park.
Anyone who would like more information on Alton Runners and how to join the club should visit the website at www.altonrunners.co.uk for further details.
By Lydia Andrews