Historic Chawton House Hosts Thrilling XC Race
On Sunday, 19th January, Alton Runners hosted the fourth fixture in the 2024/25 Southern Cross Country League (SCCL) at the picturesque Chawton House. This year marks the sixth time Alton Runners have hosted this event, and it just keeps getting better!
The 5-mile Chawton House course, set in the grounds of the stunning Elizabethan manor house that once belonged to Jane Austen's brother, Edward, followed a variety of undulating tracks, paths and trails. Although the event missed its usual sheep spectators and the mud wasn't as thick as it sometimes is, the excellent marshals and superb cake at the end more than made up for it. The weather was chilly, but course conditions were perfect.
Catherine Seagar from Liss Runners summed it up perfectly: “Beautiful venue, lovely course, incredible hosts plus nice and local!"
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There was a brilliant turnout, with 436 runners from 21 local running clubs taking part. Among them were 38 participants from Alton Runners, all giving their best on the course. A special shoutout to Dylan Poulton of Alton Runners, who finished first among the men and has impressively won all four fixtures this season. Samara Kelleher-Jacobs was Alton’s first female finisher in 26th place.
Not only was it the first cross-country fixture of 2025, but it was also Darren Mansfield’s first outing as Race Director. The event went off without a hitch, a testament to Darren's hard work and dedication. Darren and Alton Runners’ incredible volunteers pulled off what must be the finest race of the season.
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When reflecting on the event, Darren said, “While everything went smoothly, my nerves didn’t truly settle until the tail runners crossed the finish line. Although this was my first race as Race Director, I was not alone. Special thanks go to Philip Scrase and Richard Taylor, who were by my side throughout. An event like this is never about one person; it’s about the fantastic team of volunteers who came out to support me, for which I am incredibly grateful. And the pint of beer at the pub afterwards was certainly well received!”
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In addition to thanking all the volunteers, the Club would like to extend a special thanks to Julia, Maddie, Bob, and the fantastic team at Chawton House for hosting us and for their excellent collaboration. Here's to many more successful races in the future!
Darren’s next outing as Race Director will be at the Alton 10 on Sunday 11th May. The Alton 10 is a popular 10-mile run in the Hampshire Road Race League calendar, attracting local and club runners from across the region. With its scenic, undulating course through the Hampshire countryside, it offers a rewarding challenge for runners of all abilities. More information and details on how to sign up can be found here.
Article by Lydia Andrews
Photos by Richard Scrase
21/01/2025