HRRL Race 2: Overton 5 Round-Up
Alton Runners turned out in force on Sunday 6th September as 26 club members tackled the Overton 5, the second fixture of the Hampshire Road Race League (HRRL) season hosted by Overton Harriers.
Set across closed country roads, the five-mile route presented an undulating challenge framed by sweeping rural views and the distinctive, rolling Overton hills. Coupled with unseasonably warm conditions on the tarmac, it proved a demanding test for the 475 competitors who took to the start line. Despite the conditions, several Alton Runners defied the inclines to clock impressive course personal bests.
The strong club contingent ensured all five Alton HRRL squads were fully filled, fielding three men’s teams alongside two women’s sides.
The impressive league turnout was all the more notable given the club's wider commitments over the weekend, which included a dedicated team of 12 members travelling to London for The Big Half, generously giving up their time to volunteer in the baggage operations and reunite runners with their kit at the finish line.
Men’s Captain Steve Drysdale praised the club's collective commitment: "It was a good turnout considering there were a couple of other events on, plus members volunteering elsewhere. We had enough for five full scoring teams!"
Leading the charge for Alton on the road was Drysdale himself, who finished as the first club runner home for the second consecutive league fixture. Crossing the line in an impressive 32nd place overall, he spearheaded the Men’s A team alongside solid scoring performances from Andrew Lowton, Neil Kinder, and James Kidwell.
Kidwell reflected on the tough outing: "It was the usual hot and hilly race, but we got it done. On to the New Forest 10 next month."
The Alton women were led home in style by Debbie Rhodes, marking a fine return to the Overton race for the first time in over a decade. Rhodes headed a determined Women’s A team across the undulating finish, backed up by strong scoring runs from Josie Davis, Wendy Hall, and Jenny Forbes.
"I hadn't run this race since 2014," said Rhodes. "It is a different and nicer course now, though still hot and hilly!"
Her return proved historic for the club, as she set a new Alton Runners five-mile record in the VF65 category, which also earned her an excellent second place in the race's VF65 age group.
The club celebrated further individual honours amidst the hills. Stalwart Hugh Bethell maintained his exceptional run of form, once again taking top spot to win the VM80 category. Jack Shepherd also put in a standout performance to secure a fine second place in the competitive VM65 division, rounding off a thoroughly encouraging league outing across the board for the Alton contingent.