AS the heavens opened for seemingly the first time in weeks on Sunday, 20 Alton Runners lined up for the start of the Solent half-marathon.

The race follows a scenic route through the New Forest, which is home to wild ponies and donkeys. No-one was injured by the wildlife, but the club’s leading runner, Alistair Morey, slipped and fell awkwardly at the first water station, just four miles into the 13.1-mile race.

With his running top covered in gravel and a bleeding arm which required four stitches, Alistair remarkably went on to finish, securing first position for the club and fourth overall in his age category in a time of one hour, 26 minutes and four seconds.

Alex Hall, who started running less than a year ago, came home second of the club contingent, claiming a personal best time just two seconds behind Alistair.

Despite the tough race-day conditions, a number of other club members came home celebrating personal best times.

Among them were Bianca Junge and Jo Scawn, who helped each other achieve their first sub-two-hour half-marathon times and Esther Park, who only stepped in to replace a fellow injured club member at the last hour.

Pondering her successful race time, Bianca put it down to great teamwork.

“I wouldn’t have been able to do it without Jo, who ran all the way with me and pushed me through the last few miles,” she said.

Women’s team captain Jane Scrase said of the day: “It was a great race and particular thanks must go to all the marshals and supporters who were cheerful and encouraging right to the end – even though they must have been soaking wet!”

*Entries for the Alton Downland Challenge on October 20 are now open. To enter, visit the website at http://www.altonrunners.co.uk/club-events/downland-challenge" TARGET="_blank">www.altonrunners.co.uk/club-events/downland-challenge.