A TEAM of MonRoss Trailblazers headed to Abbey Dore on the county ‘s western border for the first Herefordshire & Borders Winter X-Country race.

Steep hills with 840ft of ascent and mud underfoot greeted the 197-strong field in the 5.66-mile race, although the beautiful scenery and warm sunshine was very welcome.

Gavin Jones led the men home in 12th overall in 41 minutes 11 seconds, as serial winner Sam Juson of Croft Ambrey AC triumphed again in a sizzling 34.50.

Blazers Kieron Brown was just behind his club mate in 15th in 41.42, with Rob Potter (84th/53.07) and Andrew Stephens (97th/54.01) completing the men’s team and helping secure 12th in the overall standings.

There were some fantastic individual results for the ladies, where Maldwyn Harriers’ Hannah Thomas set the benchmark in 35th overall in 44.49.

Blazers’ Kate Shuttlewood was fastest over-45 woman in 69th in 51.00, just 31 seconds and four places behind club mate Laura Lelievre who was third over-35.

Jess Rainey was also third senior woman in 79th overall, crossing in 52.13.

Meanwhile, Trailblazers are gearing up for their Blaze the Biblins Trail Race this Sunday, October 11, starting at 11am at the campsite.

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