Runners flock to the Hooky Christmas Canter
Foggy festive fun at this chip timed, costumed race.
Herd community was reached at the 2021 Hooky Christmas Canter (Sunday 19 December) as runners in festive attire turned out in cold, foggy weather for this seasonal favourite. For the team from Cherwell Runners & Joggers it was their most successful event baa none.
The Christmas Canter is one of two races from Hook Norton Harriers, the other their Hooky 6, and was a well organised, enjoyable event to end the year on. The popularity of this race is such that it sold out in 61 hours! It was chip timed courtesy of Tempo Events.
Christmas isn’t Christmas without fancy dress and there were plenty of excellent outfits on display that included Santa’s, elves, a cracker and a present and for anyone feeling a bit peckish, a rasher of bacon accompanied by an egg. Costumes are a serious business with prizes for the best individual and team up for grabs.
An angel blowing a trumpet and sheep plus shepherds was part of the fold that took on a hilly 7 miler, starting at 11am in front of the Hook Norton Sports & Social Club. They followed a scenic route on field, trail and road that led out of the village and towards Great Rollright then back towards Hook Norton. It included a water station and best of all, a mulled wine stop at Great Rollright to keep out the cold. Marshals applauded and encouraged them every step of the way.
Chris McKeown of Spa Striders was the winner in 45:24 followed by Chris Morgan in 45:57. Juan Angel Gonzalez Diaz was third in 47:11.
Claire True of Alchester RC was the winning female in 52:46. Charlotte Everard of Spa Striders was second in 52:57 with Rachel Cooke of Buckingham & Stowe RC third in 53:08.
A full set of results can be viewed vis the runABC Midlands Race Listings page.
Cherwell Runners & Joggers won the individual and team fancy dress prizes for their angel and sheep with shepherds outfits.
A heavenly run, mulled wine and mince pies and lots of good cheer – the antidote to these Omicron times. A vote of thanks to everyone who made it happen and Merry Christmas!
Photo by Barry Cornelius.
