Alton Runners turned out in force on September 6 as 26 club members tackled the Overton 5, the second fixture of the Hampshire Road Race League season hosted by Overton Harriers.

Set across closed country roads, the five-mile route presented an undulating challenge framed by sweeping rural views and the distinctive rolling Overton hills.

Coupled with unseasonably warm conditions, it proved a demanding test for the 475 competitors who took to the start line.

Despite the conditions, several Alton Runners defied the inclines to clock impressive course personal bests.

The strong club contingent ensured all five Alton squads were fully filled, with three men’s and two women’s sides.

Men’s captain Steve Drysdale said: "It was a good turnout considering there were a couple of other events on, plus members volunteering elsewhere. We had enough for five full scoring teams."

Drysdale led the charge for Alton, finishing as the club’s first runner home for the second consecutive league fixture.

Crossing the line 32nd overall, he spearheaded the men’s A team alongside solid scoring performances from Andrew Lowton, Neil Kinder and James Kidwell.

James said: “It was the usual hot and hilly race, but we got it done. On to the New Forest 10 next month.”

The Alton women were led home in style by Debbie Rhodes, who headed a determined women’s A team, backed up by strong scoring runs from Josie Davis, Wendy Hall and Jenny Forbes.

Debbie said: “I hadn't run this race since 2014. It is a different and nicer course now, though still hot and hilly.”

She set a new Alton Runners five-mile record in the VF65 category, which also earned her an excellent second place in the race's VF65 age group.

Hugh Bethell again won the VM80 category while Jack Shepherd put in a standout performance to finish second in the VM65 division.

By Lydia Andrews