10 hardy HRR runners took on round 2 of the NESS XC league at Wix Equestrian Centre near Harwich on Sunday.
In a complete contrast to round 1, which was run on a beautifully sunny day on well managed school fields, today’s race was what some people might call “Proper cross country “. 40mph winds, wet & boggy ploughed fields, mud galore, 5 ditch jumps & even a horse jump to tackle meant the runners were in for an interesting running experience.
Even though both men and women run together in the same race they are scored separately.
In the men’s race Matt Thomas was once again first Halstead runner home in 18th position out of the 135 men competing. Not far back in 35th spot was the first of the 2 Wilson brothers, Alistair, who were running today.
Following him, 7 places behind in 42nd, was Hrr men’s xc captain Steve May, whose current marathon training is paying off giving him a comfortable run today in the conditions. The 2nd Wilson sibling, George, was next to cross the line in 58th spot in only his 2nd XC race, the 1st being the aforementioned Ipswich race, so this was an eye opener for him especially running in road shoes too.
XC veteran Gavin Ripton was next home for Halstead in 81st spot, having suffered a footwear malfunction and having the sole of 1 of his running shoes completely ripped off on a treacherous muddy, plugged section of the course. Don Wilson, completing the Wilson family day out, had a strong run to cross the line in 94th spot. Bringing the Halstead men home was Darren Powell who enjoyed the challenge & wasn’t far off his time from last year, in 124th position.
73 ladies took part in the race today and Anoushka Springett continued her excellent form from last season coming first Halstead lady home in 30th place. Not far back in 48th spot was Lorraine Garnham, who has had some strong runs in all her xc races this season and is clearly enjoying the off road challenges. Bringing the women’s team home with another consistent run and showing that all her recent training is reaping it’s rewards was Jo Roulson in 70th place.
Unfortunately with both the men & women’s teams being 1 member each short to complete full scoring teams Halstead finished in 6th place in both their respective Pool A’s leaving them sitting bottom of Pool A combined overall on the day. Baked goods & tales of people’s battles with the wind & mud were shared by all after the race. Well done HRR xc team – You got it done!!
