TWO cross country races were held at the weekend and Istead and Ifield Harriers had a good turnout at both events.

The Kent Cross Country Championships were held at Wilmington School on Saturday, the second time the venue has hosted the event.

Ray Pearce was the club’s first man home, followed closely by Joe Cumberland.

The ladies race was just as close, with Barbara Ockenden finishing just ahead of Verity Bradley.

On Sunday, the Kent Fitness League race took place at Minnis Bay.

This year the ditches weren’t quite as bad as usual and the beach start was avoided due to the high tide.

Nine men turned out for Istead, including three who had taken part in the Kent Championships the previous day.

They were led home by James Gibson on one of his rare appearances for the club.

Results:

Kent Men’s Championships – Ray Pearce 67th 44:24; Joe Cumberland 70th 44:40; Andy Archer 79th 45:38; Mark Champion 88th 46:11; Steve Lelliott 107th 48:17; Ken Rains 113rd 48:35; Derek George 126th 49:25; Simon Parrin 129th 49:47; Steve Cable 145th 51:10; Andy Francis 182nd 61:18.

Kent Ladies’ Championships – Barbara Ockenden 69th 40:01; Verity Bradley 70th 40:05; Helen Fooks 82nd 45:15; Claire Ward 84th 46:34

Kent Fitness League, Minnis Bay – James Gibson 15th 38:31; Andrew Archer 26th 39:04; Mark Champion 30th 39:20; Andy Francis 79th 42:40; Nick Claydon 111th 44:13; Peter Gibson 116th 44:35; John Gillis 173rd 47:32; Barry Bell 217th 50:11; Daryl Lucas 252nd 53:17