The sixth race in the Kent Fitness Cross-country League was held at Minnis Bay, Birchington on Sunday 13th January. Although this course is flat, it is always testing as it is run mainly on the wet marshes and there are many deep ditches to negotiate.
Medway & Maidstone AC continued with their improved results this season, particularly in the men’s team race. The team had some very good results at the front end, but because of the complex scoring system, requiring specific age groups, the team dropped to 8th place, out of 18 on this occasion. The men’s team, however, remain in a creditable 6th place overall, their best position for many years.
The first man home from the club was Chris Rampling in 3rd (36.43), who, along with Daniel St Martin in 7th (37.42) and M45 Neill Wright 8th (37.51) made it 3 in the top ten out of 406 runners. Adam Featherstone M45 was in 28th (39.55), followed by M50 Alun Rodgers, who amazingly, after running 96 races over 16 seasons, had his best race position ever in 35th (40.32). Sean Rodwell 57th (41.36), M65 Ivon Whitmore 256th (52.30) and M65 Nigel Read 339th (59.56) completed the men’s team. The only female runner was Catherine Rodwell who had her best race to date in 60th (54.23).
In the Junior race, Cameron Featherstone was the winner in the Under 14’s race and is also a clear leader in the overall league standings. Callum Featherstone was 4th in the same race, which leaves him 4th in the league standings.
The final race in this year’s season is on the 3rd February at Blean Woods, Canterbury, where the club hope to get a strong combined team out.