Alcock and Murray lead the way for Bedford

January 15th By Cameron Gillies

There were some outstanding performances from Bedford & County AC’s Ben Alcock and Rebecca Murray at the Chiltern League Cross Country round four, at Campbell Park in Milton Keynes on Saturday.

The Chiltern League is one of the strongest in the south of England, with races in all age groups being of a high standard.

Ben Alcock fighting his way through the boggy conditions. Credit: @jhmimages

Alcock totally dominated the senior men’s race, taking victory by an impressive margin of 83 seconds, in his first cross-country race of the season.

Behind Alcock in the race were promising runs from team-mate Noah Campion who secured his highest finishing position this campaign, coming in as the first under 20 home, and third overall. This was backed by top five finishes from James Minter in fourth place, and Craig Emmerson in fifth place.

On the race, Alcock said: “The race went well, a super hilly and boggy course so it was all about managing the effort which I think I executed well.

“Wasn’t too surprised with the win as that was the aim, but it depends who turns up on the day. There was a couple lads there to keep the race honest which is good to see.

“We won the team race at the Chiltern League so we were happy, it’s good to see the boy’s turnout regularly.

“The team and training group is looking strong entering the track season. Good to see the lads motivating each other to improve too which is the main thing.”

Rebecca Murray was the standout performer in the senior women’s race, finishing in a well thought first place, which reflected her successful season. A little further back was Ellie Garraway following in 21st place and Carla Whitmore next in 84th.

The clubs senior men’s team, and the under 20 men’s team won their matches, and in addition the under 15 boys team remain top of the league despite finishing second.

Bedford & County’s athletes are next in cross-country action on Saturday, January 28th, at the Southern Cross-Country Championships which is held at Beckenham Place Park, Kent.