Devon Cross Country Championships

Sunday 16th January

The weather may have been spring-like for Sunday's Devon Cross Country Championships in Exeter, but underfoot this was a real winter event. While the day was bright and sunny, recent rain had left the hilly course very heavy with mud. Each race comprised a number of laps of the former County Showground at Exeter Arena, making the mud more difficult for the runners as the afternoon progressed.

In the women's race, over 8 kilometres, Camilla Sharpe finished a very creditable 8th place and Hannah Dupain was not far behind in 13th place. Emma Dupain finished third in the Under 20 women's event, which was run in conjunction with the senior women's race.

Eight Harriers took part in the men's event, held over 11 kilometres, with six to score towards the team championships. With several key team members absent, Exmouth Harriers finished second behind Tavistock AC. The Senior men's team were led home by Anthony Hatchard (who finished 11th overall) with Dave Stone (14th), Steve Hockings-Thompson (17th), Hugh Marsden (18th overall and third Vet 45), Andrew Johnson (33rd) and Tim Gent (34th) as the other scorers.

John Perratt - who won gold for the veteran 65 category - and Lee Russell also took part. Exmouth Harriers also picked up the veteran team bronze award through Hugh Marsden, Andrew Johnson and John Perratt.

(Sorry no photos this time).