Hatton Darts cross-country race report

[Chris Fletcher]

Hatton Darts took a much depleted cross-country squad to Fosse Meadows, nr Whitwick, Leicestershire

for the 6th race in the Derby Runner League.

On arguably the toughest course faced so far, runners faced large sections of ankle deep mud, flooded fields 

and a stream to cross. Ground conditions were not for the feint hearted, though the crisp, sunny weather was

welcome to a field of over 300 athletes.

Alex Benfield and Ashley Hurdman led the charge for the red vests, keeping right up with the leading pack in the 

early stages as they tussled for position. It was Benfield, who again proved the faster, running a well paced race

and finishing with his customary fast finish for an excellent 2nd place, ahead of Hurdman, who gave his all for a fine

5th placing. 

Next in was Dart's legend Tony Caulton, whose long raking stride was curtailed by the mud, though his strong running

saw him through for 17th.

A bleary-eyed Stan Knopik, who had worked a night shift and managed just 2 hours' sleep, put in a spirited performance

to secure 43rd position.  Not far behind was the ever-dependable Jim Londesborough, running resolutely for 53rd place.

Jonathan Gregson seems to relish muddy courses as he shrugged conditions off to cross the line with a smile on his face

for 75th place.

Final Dart home and counter for the men's team was Super vet. Tony Press  for 120th.

In the women's race Darts' ladies were down to the bare-bones, just making the requisite team number of 4.

All credit to those running who all put in solid performances which have kept the club still in the hunt for championship honours.

The ever-improving Emma Dyson continues to impress, running well for 29th, with Carol Sharratt  putting in a determined run

for 64th place. Next in was Karen Jackson who worked hard for 90th place, ahead of team mate Ruth Matthews in 96th, 

who was just pleased to finish after long lay-off from injury.

After the final tally the combined team score placed the  Darts in 3rd place on the day. This puts them just one point behind 

league leaders Leicester Tri., equal points with Shelton Striders, and with one league fixture remaining there is all to play for.