Alton Runners achieved some impressive results in the 2024-25 Southern Cross Country League Alice Holt Forest fixture.

The race attracted more than 400 participants from 24 running clubs.

The five-mile course featured a variety of undulating tracks, paths and trails around the forest.

The Alice Holt course is known for its challenging terrain, which becomes progressively hillier and muddier.

Alton Runner Steph Erskine said: “I loved the little river section, followed by a steep, muddy, slippery bank.

“I didn’t realise there was a rope to grab hold of to haul yourself up, so I did a bit of running on the spot instead.

“My legs were definitely moving, but I wasn’t – it felt like that most of the way around.”

An impressive 44 yellow vests represented Alton Runners at the fixture, along with a strong support team.

The race was won by Alton Runner Dylan Poulton, who took the lead at the two-mile mark and never looked back, making it three wins from three in the league.

The first female Alton Runner to cross the line was Molly Byrne, who was the 21st female overall.

Alton Runners finished joint-second as a team, just behind Liss Runners.

Alton Runner Ian Urquhart said: “It was a very muddy course and was how cross country should be – I thoroughly enjoyed it.

“Well done to everyone who took part and to the marshals for their support along the way.”

The next cross country fixture is hosted by Alton Runners in the grounds of Chawton House on Sunday, January 19.

This will be the fourth round of this season’s Southern Cross Country League.

The five-mile course follows a variety of undulating tracks, paths and trails around the estate.

The next fixture in the Hampshire Road Race League is the Stubbington 10km on Sunday, January 12.

By Lydia Andrews