Alton Runners achieved some impressive results at the New Forest ten-mile race.

The race was the third fixture in the 2024-25 Hampshire Road Race League (HRRL) season.

The New Forest ten-mile race offered runners a chance to enjoy the scenery of the New Forest.

The race started and finished in New Park, Brockenhurst, and was hosted by New Forest Runners.

A total of 822 runners participated, including 25 from Alton Runners.

Richard Webley was the first Alton Runner to finish, and he finished in 16th place overall.

Samara Kelleher-Jacobs was the first female Alton Runner to finish and finished 58th.

The weather was perfect for running, with sunshine and comfortable temperatures.

Runners were treated to views of wild ponies on the heathland. Some of the faster runners saw the ponies gallop across the road, although they were calm by the time most runners passed.

Alton Runner Steve Drysdale said: “I came for the running but stayed for the horses.”

The course was mostly flat with a few gentle hills and an ankle-deep ford crossing.

Despite the mixed terrain, many runners enjoyed the trail sections, even if they usually prefer road running.

Alton Runner Jane Scrase said: “I should have worn my trail shoes. I think there was one-and-a-half miles of road. I will pretend it’s cross country if I do it again.”

After the race, there was a selection of food and drinks.

The New Forest ten-mile race combined the beauty of the New Forest with the joy of running. Each finisher received a horse brass medal as a keepsake from the day.

The next HRRL fixture is the Gosport half marathon on Sunday, November 17, and Alton Runners have a team of 14 already signed up for the event.

Alton Runners are a friendly and inclusive running club which welcomes runners of all abilities – from beginners to seasoned runners.

Anyone who would like more information on Alton Runners and how to join the club should visit the website at www.altonrunners.co.uk for further details.

By Lydia Andrews