Uphill task for runners in annual Trundle 10k

The 324 finishers included a record contingent of 45 from host club Chichester Runners, who made the most of home advantage by winning all three categories, individual male and female and team prize.

Leading from the front, James Baker was content to bide his time along the Lavant Valley before making his move on the steepest part of the 10k course to the top of the Trundle.

Despite valiant efforts by Julian Manning from Denmead Striders and James Walker from Steyning AC, Baker had more than half a minute in hand as he crossed the line in 36min 51sec.

A solid performance from the rest of the men’s top six saw Chris West in eighth, Dave Dorning 23rd, Lee Neumann 28th, Steve Hasler 33rd and Tom Blaylock 35th.

Next Chichester runner home, in 39th, was Fay Cripps, who showed fine form to win the women’s race in 45.35 with team-mate Helen Pattinson third and local schoolteacher Polly Gick fourth. Four more of the Chichester contingent finished in the top 20 led home by Persephone Hagan (14th), with Jane Leonard 16th, Anneliese Shaw 17th and Katie Michael 29th.

Team-wise Chichester had the edge with 84 points, one short of the maximum with Arunners on 82, Worthing 81 and Steyning 78.