The South of England Masters cross-country championships took place at Claybury in East London last Saturday, in a fixture shared with the Intercounties match. Despite late withdrawals due to injury and illness, we fielded a strong team in the female 50+ age category.
Conditions on the day were bright but chilly, and exceptionally muddy underfoot, as the combined field of women aged 40-49 and 50+ set off on the undulating two-and-a-half lap course. Fiona Kennedy led the way for the team, working her way through the field to finish 13th overall, and first woman over 50. With individual medals being awarded in 5 year age bands, this won her the W55 medal, and her 8th South of England title.
Carol Jones was next to finish for the club in 33rd, having reeled in clubmate Gill Morgan during the latter stages. Gill held on well to finish just 15 seconds behind in 37th position. Julia Gristwood was the fourth club member competing in the 50+ age group, finishing 69th.
With three to score, Fiona, Carol and Gill took silver in the W50 team competition, having been narrowly beaten by London Heathside.