Southwest Vets AC Cross Country
Photo courtesy of Kit Woodcock.
Taking part in the South West Vets Cross-Country Championship last Sunday 27th January were 7 Mighty Greens. The race is 6km comprising of 3½ laps around the fields by the Rugby Club. In previous years the course has quickly turned into a muddy, slippery affair, but this year despite the recent rain, the course was good underfoot. To make matters even better the sun came out for the duration of the race. If only you could keep out of the biting north wind.
Although this is a championship event, it is a very friendly, low-key affair (mug of coffee and a chocolate biscuit after), it welcomes runners of all abilities. You never know who you are rubbing shoulders with, for instance, amongst Sunday’s runners was Ian Thompson, who still holds the Commonwealth Games Marathon Record of 2hrs 9 mins 12 secs set in 1974.
Paula Farrand picked up first prize in the W45-49 category and Emma Grainger first prize in the W65-69 age-group. Antony Hall had a good run and was the first Might Green home in 12th place. Naomi Garrick who turned up with a nasty cold, was the first Sidmouth woman home, closely followed by Kate Johnston. Bert Dykema had an enjoyable run on home territory and thanks to the much drier conditions underfoot Rob Edwards was 3 minutes quicker than last year.
Results: Antony Hall 24:40, Rob Edwards 30:10, Naomi Garrick 31:16, Kate Johnston 31:21, Paula Farrand 32:18, Bert Dykema 37:27, Emma Grainger 40:32.