OXFORD MAIL CROSS COUNTRY LEAGUE

THERE were first-time winners in both senior races as the new season got under way at Ascott-under-Wychwood.

Diane Moore (Headington Road Runners) surprised herself by winning the ladies’ event, while Nyle Clinton (Swindon Harriers) stormed home in the men’s contest.

After a hot and dry October, conditions were reassuringly wet and muddy for the start of the Oxfordshire cross country season.

Moore, 39, took the lead halfway down the hill on the first lap of the 6.5km, coming home in 23mins 37secs.

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Woodstock Harriers’ Jessica Webb came second in 24.03, ahead of clubmate Rachel Masser (24.29).

Oxford City’s Martha Lloyd (24.42) was fourth and Eynsham Road Runners’ Hannah Hale (24.52) fifth.

“I was surprised to win as I haven’t competed in cross country since the 2010/11 season,” said Moore.

“I wasn't too sure what to expect.”

Having enjoyed a dominant year on the roads, Moore now looks a strong bet to add a cross country title to her collection.

Clinton, 19, pulled away up the hill on the first lap of the 8.5km course, eventually taking victory in 28.49.

The Brunel University student saw off Oxford City’s Darrell Bellinger (29.38) and reigning champion, Cirencester’s David Bell (29.42).

Abingdon’s Paul Fernandez (30.17), the 2011-12 champion, moved through the field well to take fourth ahead of White Horse Harriers’ Jonny Cornish (30.27).

Clinton said: “It was a good feeling because I have won younger age group races before at the Oxford league, but there’s a bit of a better and louder atmosphere in the senior race so it was more special.

“I knew I had a good chance to come close.

“I wasn’t sure if David Bruce, who usually wins, would be there and when he wasn’t, I was quietly confident, but was not expecting to win by as far as I did.”

Clinton hopes to challenge for the senior and under 20 titles.

Moore was also the leading vet 35 lady, while Kidlington’s Helene Greenwood (25.06) was the first under 20 home, in sixth.

Ros Kelling (Banbury Harriers) leads the vet 45 ranks with an 11th-placed finish in 25.38.

Gwyneth Hueter (Oxford City) was the first vet 55 home in 28.57.

Headington hold a narrow lead from Alchester in ladies’ Division 1, but Division 2 leaders Woodstock have the lowest total.

Fernandez was the first vet 40 man home, with Luke Armitage (St Edward’s School) the top vet 50 in 32.58.

City’s Stewart Thorp (36.34) leads the vet 60 standings, while his club already have a 152-point lead in Division 1.

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