From Helen Straker, Ladies XC Captain:
“So cross country season is officially here, the first Southern League fixture is on Sunday 25th October over near Basingstoke. Whoop, can’t wait.
For those new to the club or new to cross country the southern league is a great friendly way to try out a bit of trail racing. It appeals equally to those who want to be competitive and race hard, to those who want to run at the back having a chat with some pals, and everyone in between. All are around 5 miles in length and all off road.
The races are an opportunity to run in a new location (some of these fixtures are on private land that you would not usually be able to run on), out in nature and riding the elements. All southern league fixtures are pretty local so are very accessible. If you don’t want to try and find your own way there or arrive on your lonesome, the league and the club encourages car sharing.
This first event sadly clashes with the Fleet 5K/10K but for those who find themselves at a loose end on Sunday 25th we would love to see you there.
Ideally we need 4 ladies and 4 men to make a team. You don’t need to be quick. Having a full team is more valuable than any individual positions! Plus it’s fun so there is no excuse.
If you’d like any more information or have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
RACE 1: BENYONS INCLOSURE - Race Instructions on Sunday 25th October.
Cross-country season is here! Join your fellow Hart Road Runners for the opening race of the Southern Cross Country League on Sunday 25 October 2026, with an 11am start.
Hosted by Basingstoke and Mid Hants Athletic Club, the race takes us through Benyons Inclosure, a privately owned woodland plantation seven miles north of Basingstoke. Expect autumn woodland, a few muddy shoes and plenty of HRR team spirit!
The course
The 8.4km circuit winds through ancient woodland and heath, with uneven trail surfaces along the way. Spikes are not recommended because the course includes gravel sections.
Horse riders may also be using the woods and must be given priority.
Getting there and parking
Use RG7 2PH for the main car park, or what3words: fuse.fled.certainty.
Parking is on the large playing field beside the village pavilion and costs £5 per car, payable by cash or card. All parking proceeds go to Silchester School, so sharing a lift is a great option.
All cars must leave the grass field by 1.30pm. If you’re staying for a woodland walk or heading to the pub, please move your car first.
The start and finish are approximately eight minutes’ walk from the parking field, so allow time to park, find the team and warm up before the 11am start.
Running for HRR
Please wear your HRR club vest — club vests are compulsory.
EA-affiliated runners can participate at no extra charge. Runners who are not EA-affiliated must pay a £2 levy and be identified on the team results. Please let the club captain know if this applies to you.
The league also has a speed restriction: runners are ineligible if they have run a similar race within the past 12 months at 5:30 per mile for men or 6:00 per mile for women.
The organiser states that runners in the U18 category and above may take part. Younger runners should confirm eligibility with the club captain before attending.
See the full Southern Cross Country League rules for further details.
At the finish
You’ll receive a token showing your finishing position. Give it to the HRR club captain as soon as possible, as these tokens are used to calculate the team results.
Tea, cakes and a post-race bite
After the race, catering is planned at the pavilion beside the parking area, offering tea, cakes and a hot sausage roll, with a vegetarian option, for £5 per person, payable by cash or card.
Bring your own mug for tea if you can!
There will be six portable toilets near the start, and first aid will be available at the start/finish.
What to bring
Your HRR club vest
Trail shoes suitable for uneven ground
A warm layer and a change of footwear for afterwards
Cash or card for parking, refreshments and the £2 levy if applicable
Your own mug, if possible
Mud, miles and team spirit — let’s get the series off to a great start!
Race enquiries: Tim Fowler — [email protected] / 07595 486930.
