I have a report for the northern x/c champs Northern glory for Kendal AAC across the age groups. The new course for the northern cross country championships at Harewood House, Leeds was tough with long climbs, tufty grass and heavy mud, a true cross-country and perfect for spectators. 761 senior men ran two large laps, 12,000 mtrs in all and it was an inform Alasdair Russell who ran an impressive race overhauling rival James Douglas of Border Harriers to finish 15th equalling the time of the 14th athlete. A delighted Russell enjoyed the course but said the mud just stopped you in your tracks . Jonny Dry ran a stronger second lap to bring him up through the field for a position of 127th. At the bottom end of her under 17 age group Rosie Woodhams ran the 5,500 mtrs judging her finish perfectly 11th in 22.13 behind Olivia Mason of Border 9th in 21.54 and ahead of Eden runners Esme Davies 12th 22.13 U20 man Luke Bowen who has had a challenging year finished 56th after a very muddy fall. The tough course suited U13 Sarah Smith, not intimidated by the numbers or the fact she has just moved up to the age group she produced a storming run 16th in 12.16 for the 3000 mtrs, just 9 secs faster would have put her in the top ten. It was a big ask for Sophie Cowen having just turn 11 but she rose to the challenge loving the event . It was Kendal’s boys who proved to have the strongest teams. Even though the season has been difficult for some. The u15 boys faced 4,000mts Daniel Sanderson lead the team 30th in 14.59 with John Egner 54th 15.30 , Ollie Sanders 62nd 15.35 Jacob Smith 106 16.13 , Ben Smith 128th 16.39 closely followed by Josh Roelants. The boys were 10th team. The u13 boys continued their successful season with a bronze team medal. Classy running by James Bowen 12th in 11.19 and brother Harry 18th 11.30 backed up by Ben Greenep 49th 11.58 and Oliver Smith 74th 12 14. Although still not feeling on top form Henry Hunter couldn’t resist a run with his team mates. Other Cumbria clubs made their presence felt with Keswick senior men 7th team and Border Harriers 10th The next focus for the club will be the national at Parliament Hill, London .

• Cross Country