Winder wins premier harrier trophy

Ben Winder took out the major prize when Athletic and Cycling Masterton held their Randolph Rose Cup harriers meet on Sunday.

The premier trophy, which was up grabs in the senior men's race, was first awarded in 1926 when the event was staged over a five-mile course and it remains one of the foremost trophies at stake in the region.

This time, the distance was 8km and Winder clocked a slick 29min 9s. First woman to finish was Gail Edwards in 38.57.

All told, 54 runners and walkers were involved, racing on courses covering 2km to 8km mostly around the Henley Lake complex. Conditions underfoot were dry and a calm morning meant some impressive times were recorded.

The under-11 runners were led in by Patrick Wootton, who completed his 2km essay in 10.17, the next three home all finishing within one minute of each other.

Competing in the under-18 grade, Sam Hodgins came home in 17.25; a time well tested by under-16 runner Claudia Green who returned 17.51secs.

In the walkers section, Brenda Farley was again the winner although she was pushed hard by Ali Lang and Rachel Reid, who finished 22 and 34 seconds respectively back.

The second event in the Masterton club's harriers four-race trophy series will be on Sunday, August 12, with the start point Kitchener Street in Lansdowne. Registrations will be taken at 9.30am and competition will begin at 10am. Entry is open to members and non-members, the latter for a gold coin entry fee.