Out in force as we launch our 26/27 HRRL campaign
Alton Runners launched their 2026/27 Hampshire Road Race League (HRRL) season in commanding fashion on Sunday, 30 August, descending on the village of Copythorne for the Totton 10k.
Organised by Totton Running Club, the event is entirely not-for-profit, with proceeds benefiting the local parish church and community Scout groups. Under favourable running conditions at 9:00 am, a competitive field of 612 athletes gathered on the start line. Among them were 38 Alton Runners - likely the largest competitive turnout by the club outside of their own home fixture, the Alton 10.
Leading the charge for Alton was Men’s Captain Steve Drysdale, crossing the line first for the club and heading up the scoring Men’s A-team alongside Christian Coles, Nick Pepper, and James Kidwell.
In the women's competition, Nicola Fitzpatrick led the squad home with a superb performance, anchoring the Women’s A-team with strong backing from Pippa Perrett, Di Byrne, and Wendy Hall.
A standout performance of the morning came from club stalwart Hugh Bethell, who claimed victory in the VM80 category with an exceptional run.
The rolling lanes produced numerous individual milestones, with personal bests celebrated by Darren Mansfield, Pippa Perrett, Josie Davis, George Watson, and Emma Coles.
The club's ranks were further bolstered by a large contingent making their league debuts in Alton colours: Marcia Vowles, Kevin Gillet, Chris Streek, Josie Davis, George Watson, Alice Wood, and Alison Moore.
All 612 finishers were rewarded at the finish line with a commemorative green technical running shirt and a post-race snack pack.
"Well done everyone, it was a remarkable turnout for what is a bit of an awkward date," said Men’s Captain Steve Drysdale after the race.
The upbeat mood among the runners was evident at the finish. Darren Mansfield was delighted with his result: "I am so happy, still buzzing. I can't believe I got a PB - shaving two minutes off my previous time."
George Watson, celebrating a major breakthrough, added: "Second ever 10k race, happy to get a PB - 15 minutes quicker than my first race."
First-timer Chris Streek reflected on the camaraderie of the squad: "This was my first event running with a club, and it was so much more enjoyable running as part of such a friendly group."
The day concluded on an even higher note as the HRRL Chairman presented the trophies for the previous 2025/26 season.
Alton Runners walked away with an impressive haul of silverware, led by individual honours for Rachel Walsh, crowned overall 1st Woman in the league, and Hugh Bethell, who topped the VM80 standings.
Club depth was equally rewarded in the team categories: Alton Runners Women’s B-team collected the title as champions of the B2 league, whilst the Alton Men’s C-team were celebrated as runners-up in the Men's B3 division.
With valuable early-season points already secured and plenty of silverware in tow, Alton Runners now face a rapid turnaround as they head to the Overton 5-mile road race this coming Sunday, 6 September.