TRXCL Liss

Farnham Runners began their season of Today’s Runner Winter League cross-country runs with an excellent joint second place of the 17 teams. Many remarked that the course at Durford Wood, organised by Liss Runners, was hillier than last year, although it was in fact exactly the same route!

Captain Dan Smith, who was delighted with a top ten position (8th), led in the men’s team that placed 5th.

Graham Wilton started at his usual pace, but had to ease off and settle for 14th. He was, not surprisingly, still feeling the effects of the Abingdon marathon two weeks before, where he set a new club M40 record with his splendid time of 2.49.21 (15th, 3rd veteran).

Charles Ashby overcame a recent injury to finish strongly in 28th. Jim Bosworth, now back on form after the Clarendon Way marathon, kept up a constant pace throughout to take 4th team slot (47th), while Tim Clover was pleased to make fifth team position (51st). Terry Steadman returning to full fitness was not far behind (57th), followed by Tim Cummins (92nd), Don Melvin (116th) and Malcolm Fitzsimmons (131st).

There were seven ladies competing for the three team places. Lindsay Bamford made the top 20 (19th), following Jane Georghiou (3rd). Jo Edson was pleased to race again (24th) and complete the ladies’ team that came 4th. Julie Russ (57th) finished just ahead of Penny Griffith (59th) while Gill Kenny (76th)stayed in front of Michelle Dixon (83rd).