Alton Runners Celebrate a Triumphant 23/24 Season

Alton Runners have had plenty to celebrate following a highly successful 2023/24 season.

Hampshire Road Race League Triumphs

The Hampshire Road Race League (HRRL), comprising 13 races from 5-miles to half-marathons, including the Alton 10, saw Alton Runners field an impressive 48 male and 41 female runners. This strong participation helped the club secure fantastic positions in the league.

• Ladies’ A Team: Finished first in Division 2, showcasing their exceptional performance.
• Men’s A Team: Secured second place in Division 1, demonstrating competitive spirit and teamwork.

In individual standings, Alton Runners boasted three top ten finishers in the men’s category, with James Perrett clinching the league’s bronze medal. Rachel Walsh finished seventh in the women’s standings.

Club Championship Awards

The Alton Runners Club Championship Awards 23/24 celebrated individual achievements and performances in both the HRRL and the Southern Cross Country League. The awards ceremony, paired with the Club’s annual picnic, highlighted the spirit of camaraderie and dedication that defines the Alton Runners community.

Alton Runners Road Race Champions 23/24

• Women’s Overall Road Race Champion: Rachel Walsh continued her dominance, winning the title for the third consecutive year.
• Men’s Overall Road Race Champion: James Perrett, who has shown remarkable improvement and embraced ultra-running, took home the top honour.
• Women’s Senior Road Race Champion: Pippa Perrett took the crown after taking part in eight races.
• Men’s Senior Road Race Champion: Matthew Eade emerged as the new name on the trophy, showcasing his prowess among senior men.
• Women’s V35 Road Race Champion: Lydia Andrews successfully defended her title, proving her consistency.
• Men’s V40 Road Race Champion: Christian Coles claimed the title for the first time, breaking the winning streak of Steve Drysdale.
• Women’s V45 Road Race Champion: Kathryn Powell, known for her colourful commentary on course hills, won this year.
• Men’s V50 Road Race Champion: Jamie Kilner-Smith was the standout performer in this category.
• Women’s V55 Road Race Champion: Diane Byrne, a long-time champion, retained her title, adding to her impressive record since 1998.
• Men’s V60 Road Race Champion: Philip Scrase, a seasoned runner with multiple titles across different age categories, added another trophy to his collection.
• Men’s V70 Road Race Champion: Richard Bacon, who previously won the V60 trophy, triumphed in the V70 category.

Alton Runners Cross Country Champions

• Female Cross Country Champion: Nicola Fitzpatrick, recognised for her dedication and progress throughout the season, took home the trophy.
• Male Cross Country Champion: Steve Drysdale, who competed in the most races and showed significant improvement, was honoured with this award.

Alton Runners Special Awards

• Member of the Year: Sarah Dugdale, celebrated for her contributions to the club, her cheerful presence, and her passion for capturing moments during runs, was voted by the members for this prestigious award.
• Runner of the Year: James Kidwell, who participated in all 12 HRRL races and a couple of cross-country races, and even completed his first ultra race, was chosen by the Committee for his inspirational efforts.
• Volunteer of the Year: Richard Scrase, acknowledged for his unwavering commitment to volunteering at events and supporting team members.

Congratulations to all the winners for their remarkable achievements, and best of luck to all club members in the 24/25 season, which kicked off last month at the Overton 5 Mile.

Article by Lydia Andrews
07/10/2024