Alton Runners launched their 2026-27 Hampshire Road Race League season in commanding fashion on August 30, descending on the village of Copythorne for the Totton 10k.

Organised by Totton Running Club, the event is entirely not-for-profit, with proceeds benefiting the local parish church and community Scout groups.

Under favourable running conditions at 9am, a competitive field of 612 athletes gathered on the start line. Among them were 38 Alton Runners - likely the largest competitive turnout by the club outside of their own home fixture, the Alton 10.

Leading the charge for Alton was men’s captain Steve Drysdale, crossing the line first for the club and heading up the scoring men’s A-team alongside Christian Coles, Nick Pepper and James Kidwell.

In the women's competition, Nicola Fitzpatrick led the squad home with a superb performance, anchoring the women’s A-team with strong backing from Pippa Perrett, Di Byrne and Wendy Hall.

A standout performance of the morning came from club stalwart Hugh Bethell, who claimed victory in the VM80 category with an exceptional run.

The rolling lanes produced numerous individual milestones, with personal bests celebrated by Darren Mansfield, Pippa Perrett, Josie Davis, George Watson and Emma Coles.

The club’s ranks were further bolstered by a large contingent making their league debuts in Alton colours - Marcia Vowles, Kevin Gillet, Chris Streek, Josie Davis, George Watson, Alice Wood and Alison Moore.

All 612 finishers were rewarded at the finish line with a commemorative green technical running shirt and a post-race snack pack.

After the race, men’s captain Steve Drysdale said: “Well done everyone, it was a remarkable turnout for what is a bit of an awkward date.”

The upbeat mood among the runners was evident at the finish. Darren Mansfield was delighted with his result. He said: “I am so happy, still buzzing. I can't believe I got a personal best, shaving two minutes off my previous time.”

George Watson, celebrating a major breakthrough, added: “That was my second ever 10k race and I’m happy to get a personal best - 15 minutes quicker than my first race.”

First-timer Chris Streek reflected on the camaraderie of the squad: “This was my first event running with a club, and it was so much more enjoyable running as part of such a friendly group.”

The day concluded on an even higher note as the Hampshire Road Race League chairman presented the trophies for the previous 2025-26 season.

Alton Runners walked away with an impressive haul of silverware, led by individual honours for Rachel Walsh, crowned overall first woman in the league, and Hugh Bethell, who topped the VM80 standings.

Club depth was equally rewarded in the team categories. The Alton Runners women’s B-team collected the title as champions of the B2 league, while the Alton men’s C-team were celebrated as runners-up in the men's B3 division.

The Hampshire Road Race League is an annual series of 12 road races from August to July, open to all runners from clubs across Hampshire. Distances range from five to 13.1 miles (eight to 21.1 km).

Club teams earn points based on the performance of their runners, with the series culminating in awards for the top-placed teams in each league. Clubs can field multiple teams, encouraging participation from runners of all ages and abilities. Individuals also earn points based on their race finish positions.

By Lydia Andrews