A massive shout out to all the volunteers, marshalls and helpers that made the first Surrey League cross-country fixture of the year such a success. A great afternoon of sport around the recreation ground at Mill Lane, and then out in the adjacent backfields, was made possible by the team at Holland Sports Association who provided the burgers, the music and the all-important post-race beers, as the athletics club welcomed almost 1000 runners to Hurst Green. Many thanks go to the team of volunteers who marshalled the course, and the finishing funnel, as well as those who were there to set up early in the morning to make sure that the course was ready for the very high-quality field.

Holland Sports Athletics Club prides itself on being a small, friendly, village club that welcomes runners of all abilities. It was lovely to see over 70 local athletes out in the blue and white colours of Holland Sports, enjoying the autumn sunshine and acquitting themselves very well in one of the toughest cross-country leagues in the country. Well done to local athlete, Jack Kavanagh for taking the win in the men’s race, as well as the A and B teams in both the men’s and women’s races for mixing it with the ‘big boys’ and showing the team spirit for which we are known.