Hampshire XC Report - Kings Park

Just three Hedgies made the short drive across to King’s Park Bournemouth for the third match of the series: Edward Pottrill, Rob Dempster and Mel Ford.

Conditions were good, with little mud and a mild, dry day. The course was different from previous years, with less of it situated on the playing fields and more of it over the undulating ground nearer to the stadium. All agreed that it was much more testing and enjoyable than before.

Running c. 6km Mel completed the course in 33.53 mins and finished 110th, but 3rd V60. (The leading V60 ran a quite astonishing 25.46 and was just the fourth Veteran lady.)

Shortly afterwards then men started their 4+ laps and c. 10kms. For the third time this winter, Abdinasir Mohamoud Elmi from Bournemouth AC won, this time by almost two minutes, completing the course in a mere 30.09. He lapped almost half of the field! Edward finished 89th in a time of 39.46 and Rob 113th in 41.12.

As we did not field three runners in either race, sadly we did not achieve overall team places. And, again, as we had so few runners was that there was plenty of cake again for all on this occasion! 😊

Rob and Mel have completed all three events so far and have secured an overall place in the League – Rob is currently 4th V50, while Edward can also still achieve an overall place by running in the final event.

That final fixture is at Prospect Park, Reading on Saturday 11th January 2025 (yes the day before Stubbington!). Details to be provided nearer the time, and we look forward to seeing many of you there again. All welcome.

Footnote: Abdinasir Mohamoud Elmi from Bournemouth AC was also the first to finish the Victory 5m the next day in 24.21!