On an almost summer-like day, 13 Road Runners took on Round 3 of the Ness XC league hosted by Great Bentley RC at Hilly Fields in Colchester. With the warm weather of the last few days and the sun continuing to beat down, the technical course with its gravel paths, field edges and tough hilly sections was firm underfoot with only a couple short muddy patches.
First home for Halstead was Steve May in 38th position. George Wilson was next back with another excellent performance in his debut xc season in 46th spot. Men’s captain Perry James put in another strong run to finish just 5 places back in 51st. The next HRR home was Gavin Ripton with another consistent run to finish in 62nd. Phil Jeffries was the next to finish with a strong run just a few places behind in 66th. Sam Wolton put in another brilliant performance as always to finish just 2 places back in 68th. Simon Smith finished well, holding off a late charge from an old Colchester teammate, to cross the line in 79th. Darren Powell completed the men’s scoring team in 98th with Andy Carter, freshly back from his adventures in New Zealand, hot on his 2 places behind in 100th spot.
In the ladies race Anoushka Springett was first home for Halstead, despite having to stop and re-tie her shoe laces early on, fighting her way back through the field to finish in 31st place. Also in her first race back since her birthday celebrations ‘Down Under’ Wendy Carter was the next to cross the line in 41st. Taking part in her first ever cross country race & making her debut for HRR Jessica Thompson put in an excellent performance to finish 1 place back in 42nd position. Completing the scoring side & bringing Halstead ladies home was the ever present this season Jo Roulson in 56th spot.
In the junior race, Halstead only had the 1 junior running today, with Lois Roulson impressing with a very good sprint finish to cross the line in 43rd position. With just 1 race left in the season it’s Halstead’s turn to host the next race at Gosfield School on 23rd March. Well done all HRR today.
