SXCL Queen Elizabeth Country Park

On the centenary of the ending of the First World War, a two minute silence was observed before the start of the second round of the Southern Cross-Country League at Queen Elizabeth Country Park, organised by Portsmouth Joggers.

Heavy rain during the previous day and night gave rise to treacherous conditions on the early stretch of smooth and slippery chalk, with no traction even for studded shoes. The rest of the 5 mile route included some long, steep ascents but the surface gave more security, though care had to be taken on downhill sections. Scenic single track sections were interspersed with wider woodland tracks.

Thirty-two Farnham Runners of all standards enjoyed the challenge of the course and the camaraderie of this League. They were rewarded with an 8th overall, with the men 10th and the ladies 8th out of the 24 clubs in the league.

Andrew Ellison led the Farnham contingent, though he had to settle for 38th. Stuart Haig gained an impressive 44th, with newcomer Dave Roy on his heels in 45th. In his third race in club colours, Andy McCall came a very useful 57th, while Neil Ambrose was final scorer in 84th with Colin Addison not far back in 86th. Tim Cummins (93rd), Ali Hardaway (98th) and John Phillips (99th) all gained creditable top 100 places.

Emma Pearson came a fine 15th to head the ladies’ scoring trio with Eloise Stradling 33rd and Kayleigh Copeland 36th. Lindsay Bamford put in a strong showing in 45th, followed by Linda Tyler 65th and Anne Snelson 66th.

All gave their best on the unforgiving route, some tackling the conditions over a longer time but still finishing with a smile.

Men: Terry Copeland 122, Chris Cramp 141 , Philip Barker 145, Damian Probett 167, Geoff Brown 243, Craig Tate-Grimes 249, Keith Toms 277, Richard Sheppard 312.

Ladies: Kay Copeland 85, Jane Georghiou 88, Helen Bracey 149, Alison Yearsley 165, Clair Bailey 169, Jane Probett, 170, Carolyn Wickham 197, Jacquie Browne 198, Kathy Brown 199.