Pontypool Runners host the first Gwent Leisure Centre League cross country race for the 2013/2014 season.

On Sunday 17 November Pontypool and District runners hosted the first cross country race for the Gwent Leisure Centre League 2013/2014 at Pontypool Park

Amongst the glorious autumn colours in Pontypool Park, nearly 200 runners tackled the tough steep climbs that the park is renown for, and raced along muddy banks and through ankle deep streams to gain points for their clubs.

10 clubs compete in the league for individual and team prizes, over a series of 6 races.

First home for Pontypool runners was Steve Davies, in 7 position and 1st in his age category, followed in quick succession by Dimitri Vorres 8th and Ray Morgan 10th. They were followed by Brian Williams 20th, (competing in his first cross country event) Paul Newton, 26th and then Gary Morgan 35th to complete the scoring team. In the women’s race, Sammi Toop put in a stunning performance to finish 8th - Sharon Woods was 16 and 1st in her category, and Emma Sowry right behind Sharon in 17th position followed by Julie Davies returning from injury, in 23rd place.

Overall, the mens team were 2nd and the womens team were 3rd.

Club Captain Dimitri Vorres said “we are proud to host the race here in the Park, it’s a very challenging course, but also the most scenic. Today, in addition to the marshals out on the course, we had 24 runners taking part which is pretty impressive for a small club that only formed 2 years ago. – many if our members were running a cross country for the first time, it was a bit of a baptism of fire, but they loved it”.

The winner of the men’s race was Richard Johnson of Islwyn Runners, and the ladies race was won by Emma Wookey of Lliswerry Runners.

The next event in the series is on 1st December in Rogerstone, hosted bt Lliswerry Runners.

Photographs: 1. Emma Wookey, winner of the ladies race and 2. Runners in the autumn leaves, Pontypool Runner Christine Vorres , Centre picture in Pontypool Red/Black and White Vest.