NHRR Seals Historic Treble at 3CXC Season Finale!

The final showdown of the Three Counties Cross Country League took place on Sunday at Delapré Abbey, and North Herts Road Runners rose to the occasion in spectacular fashion! The typically tame course was transformed by recent rain into a true cross-country challenge, with a treacherous mix of tufty grass, soggy fields, deep puddles, and thick mud—just the way we like it!
   
Undeterred by the conditions, our Squirrels arrived with a mission: to secure all three team championships—Men’s, Women’s, and Combined. With 22 Squirrels racing and a fantastic support crew of scorekeepers and cheer squads, the stage was set for an epic conclusion to the season.

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A Nail-Biting Finale
Going into the final race, the men needed to outperform Bedford Harriers, while the women had to outpace Rugby & Northampton AC to maintain their lead. It was a true last-race showdown!
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On the day, our NHRR women clinched victory, narrowly beating Bedford Harriers and Wellingborough & District AC. The men’s team placed second behind Rugby & Northampton AC but managed to hold off Bedford Harriers. In the combined standings, NHRR took the top spot, securing a triumphant league win over Bedford Harriers and Rugby & Northampton AC.

Scoring for NHRR:

• Women: Katie Harbon, Rhia Botha, Hannah Ridley, and Natalie Phillips
• Men: Rob Jowett, Ben Hadman, Wayne Bell, Matt Sayers, Vince Wright, Ian Datlen, Oliver Babik, and Steve McKeown

A Historic Victory
These results meant that NHRR claimed the treble—winning the Men’s, Women’s, and Combined Team Championships once again!

• 6th consecutive Men’s Team Championship
• 5th consecutive Women’s Team Championship
• 4th consecutive Combined Team win

The combined team dominated the final four races, securing the league title by a commanding five-point margin.

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A Team Effort
This success wasn’t just about the scorers—it was a true team effort! Every Squirrel who raced played a role, from those scoring points to the B and C team runners who pushed other clubs down the standings. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed, from those competing in multiple races to those bringing energy and encouragement. The team spirit this season has been second to none!

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Season Stats & Individual Awards

• 75 Squirrels took part in at least one race this season.
• 8 runners completed all five races.
• 17 runners competed in four or more races to qualify for individual league standings.

Individual Awards:

• Rob Jowett – 2nd in the Men’s Open Championship
• Hannah Ridley – 1st in FV25-30
• Travis Kruger – 1st in MV40
• Matt Sayers & Vince Wright – 2nd & 3rd in MV45
• Ian Datlen – 3rd in MV50
• Steve McKeown & Mike Over – 2nd & 3rd in MV55
• Lucy O’Connor – 2nd in FV60

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Parkrun Roundup 
 
Chipping Norton School: Anna Greetham (26:50), Matt Roberts (26:50)
Conkers: Brian Judkins (38:19)
Finsbury: Richard Harbon (25:37)
Henlow Bridge Lakes: Matt Ankers (24:57), Dave Braybrook (27:30)
Highbury fields: Emily Yossarian (28:23)
Letchworth: James Dalton (24:12), Laura Fairbanks (27:12), Steve Brenton (28:02), Philip Flack (41:29)
Oaklands college: Bev Rimmer (42:53)
Stevenage: Sophie Thrussell (20:15), Ben Sewell (20:16), Andrew Coates (27:22), Ellie Scott (27:37), Amanda Greig (34:24)
Sunny Hill: Kris Whitmore (20:15)
University parks: Barbara Sayers (26:03)
Valentines: Darren Matussa (21:05)