Round 5 of cross country was held at Berry on May 15th. Numbers were strong for the return to this course with nine enthusiastic competitors in the 2km event. Harrison Crawford was first home in 8.58 followed by Malachy Martin but it was Finn Goddard in third place, who was the speediest finishing 2kms in just 5.21 minutes.
There were twenty participants in the 3km course and this time it was Jett Goddard who was the fastest, crossing in sixth place in 11.50. Clearly speed runs in the Godard family! Crossing the line first however was Erin Smart in 13.41 followed closely by Bethany Dobson in second place with 13.38. Third place was Tom Smart and fourth was Evie Smart; demonstrating another strong running lineage. Meanwhile Anna Duncan was the fastest female over this distance crossing the line in 12.54.
Medium course had twenty-four contenders and Steven Thomson was the victor in front of Phil Duncan and Glen Mustapic. The contest for fastest athlete was a three-way battle between Darcy Davis, Tom Duncan and Harrison Baxter. In the end Harrison took the title with a time of 21.06 whilst Tom was next fastest in 21.27 and Darcy was just marginally slower with 21.50. Once again, Elisha Bell was the fastest female clocking 23.38.
Long course winner was Dean Bryce who continues to impress with his dedication and consistent improvement. Second home was Dan O’Connor who is also impressing in his second season with the Club, and third was David Hughes for his first run at the Berry course. However it was Scott Martin who was the quickest over the distance with his time of 34.37.
It was great to be back running on the Berry course and the Club thanks Berry Equestrian Club for the opportunity to run here.
Next week cross country is at Hollyhill where the AGM and Presentation will also take place.