The 78th annual Victory 5 Mile race took place at Lakeside North Harbour in Portsmouth on December 1.

Despite dreary weather 28 Alton Runners made quite a splash in this fifth Hampshire Road Race League fixture.

The very high-class field included athletes who had represented their country at European and Commonwealth levels.

A flat, fast and not particularly scenic course saw the Alton Runners braving rain.

Dylan Poulton was the first Alton Runner to cross the finish line, securing 25th place overall. Rachel Walsh led the Alton women and was the 17th fastest woman on the day. Every participant received a medal and a certificate.

Sarah Dugdale said: “It took an enormous amount of willpower, travelling down to Portsmouth in the wind and rain in the hope it would dry up and we would complete the race without getting soaked through.

“Sadly it wasn’t to be, and running along the A27 with the wind and rain beating in my face I did wonder what I was doing - until I reached the finish line. The encouragement and support from my fellow team members is exactly why I compete.”

Steph Erskine added: “I don’t like rain or cold - we had both. I loved the course, flat is what it’s about. I’m so proud to be a member of Alton Runners, everyone welcomes me with open arms.”

Patrick Tuite ran a personal best, shaving nearly a minute off his five-mile record.

Kathryn Powell and her daughter Lola enjoyed their first Victory 5 race together. Kathryn said: “I loved being able to take part in a race with Lola now she’s old enough. She came in five minutes before me, and in her words - ‘That was awesome, and I can’t wait to do it again!’ Thank you to everyone who cheered her on as well. Best race ever, can’t get lost and no hills!”

The next fixture on the Hampshire Road Race League calendar is the popular Stubbington 10km in the new year, where 27 Alton Runners have already secured their spots. It promises to be another exciting event for the team in yellow.