Race 4 and final race of 2025 and we were met by rather pleasant mild weather which was of course a big relief after last year’s storm forced cancellation of the race. The course was in pretty good nick thanks to some last-minute spring cleaning and branch clearing! A good mix of road and trail shoes being chosen amongst the runners.
245 runners turned out to represent their clubs, and all headed off in pursuit of the Santa themed lead cyclist. Everyone seemed to pick up a good amount of mud as they made their way through the forest course and am sure were overjoyed to be met by a blustery headwind for the last ½ mile chase to the finish tape.
Leading the men home was Jack England of Winchester Fit Club, with Richard Crawford of Lordshill Road Runners in 2nd and Edward Pottrill of Hedge End Running Club rounding out the top 3. Poppy Tanner lead the women home for Hardley Runners, Followed by Bexy Dew from Totton Running Club and Caitlin Hooton of Lordshill Road Runners.
The top scoring teams were Winchester Fit Club’s men, making it four-from-four and Totton Running Club ladies with their first win of the season.
Huge thanks to all those Volunteers from New Forest Runners, Lymington Tri & Lymington Athletics who turned out early this morning to make the Holmsley CC6 we hosted so successful and enjoyable for everyone involved. Also, to those who so generously provided cakes and bananas, including those who were unable to be there.
On behalf of Chairman Jim and Captain Rod, thank you very much!
Looking forward to seeing you all in a few weeks’ time at Race 5: Itchen Valley Country Park!
Merry Christmas!