The Alton 10: A challenge on and off the course
The 2026 Alton 10 was never going to be an easy race, but this year the real test started before the runners even reached the start line. While the event is a staple for raising funds for local charities, the weekend became a lesson in quick thinking and club spirit as Alton Runners and the Alton Lions worked to keep the race on track.
The event was hit with a major setback just twenty-four hours before the start. Race Director (RD) Darren Mansfield was hospitalised following a serious cycling accident, leaving the organising team to fill a significant gap at the last minute. Former RD Philip Scrase stepped back into the role to provide a steady hand, while Darren Burgess took over the complex logistics and course setup. The club rallied to ensure the race went ahead as planned, with every member running with Darren M in mind. The club extends its best wishes to him for a full recovery.
As Emily Palmer from the Runny Honeys Running Group, it was a "hugely community-spirited event," from the marshals to the team that stepped up in a crisis to make sure the race happened.
Under cool, cloudy skies (ideal conditions for tackling the notoriously tough Binsted hills), 478 runners gathered at Holybourne Cricket Club. With a light breeze and the official start from Town Mayor Annette Eyre, the sell-out field set off on the undulating 10-mile course.
Alton Runner, Lisa Caswell, said that while she isn't usually a fan of hills, the organisation made this her favourite Alton 10 yet.
At the front of the pack, the pace was high. Joshua Price (Vectis Academy) took the men’s title in 54:20, while Bexy Dew (Totton Running Club) was the first woman home in 1:04:28. Prizes were provided by CN Coles Hard Landscaping & Groundwork, and as the ninth fixture of the Hampshire Road Race League (HRRL), the results carry plenty of weight as the season enters its final stretch.
The home club was well-represented with 41 Alton Runners in the mix. Sam Larcombe led the Alton men in 12th place overall, joined in the A team by Steve Drysdale, Christian Coles, and Andrew Lowton. Samara Kelleher-Jacobs was the first Alton woman to finish, supported by Florence Smith, Nicola Fitzpatrick, and Diane Byrne.
There were several standout age-category performances, with Andrew Lowton (VM60) and Hugh Bethall (VM80) winning their respective groups. Age group podium spots also went to Stephanie Erskine, Jack Shepherd, Neil Kinder, Steve Drysdale, and Diane Byrne. Despite the elevation, six Alton members; Nicola Fitzpatrick, Clywd Jones, Pippa Perrett, Lee Ellis, Jo Gale, and Lisa Caswell, all came away with new 10-mile personal bests.
The finish line at Eggar’s School had a festive atmosphere, aided by Rock Choir, who even managed to get a few weary runners dancing. The day relied heavily on a small army of volunteers: the Alton Lions marshalled the route, while local Scout and Boys’ Brigade groups ran the water stations. All finishers received a wooden medal designed by BrandStorm, featuring a design inspired by the local Watercress Line steam railway - a memento widely regarded as the best wooden medal in the league.
Reflecting on the race, 14-time Alton 10 veteran Jim Armitage said, “The weather was cooler than it usually is for this event. We were greeted at the finish line by the Alton Rock choir which was very pleasant. A great race today with record participants.”
Post-race recovery was supported by Sainsbury’s Alton, Zombie Fruit Snacking, Bean & Gone, and Sir Whippy. Mansfield Park Physiotherapy provided much-needed massages, and TeesMedals handled the sustainability side, collecting dozens of old trainers and medals for recycling.
Alton Runners would like to thank every runner, volunteer, and supporter for their help, understanding, and support. The Alton 10 is a community event at its heart, and this year felt extra special.
Attention now turns to the next HRRL race, the Netley 10k at Royal Victoria Country Park. 20 Alton Runners have already signed up to make the trip down to the south coast to take part in the next fixture of the road race season.