Warmed mulled wine was just the ticket for participants at Sunday’s (18 December) Hooky Christmas Canter as they ran, trotted or walked a challenging multi-terrain course. It helped to keep out the cold...

Temperatures could best be described as on the low side for the 2022 Hooky Christmas Canter. One of two races from Hook Norton Harriers, it is a fun way to end the year ahead of Christmas and before the start of the 2023 season. 

It’s the festive season which means fancy dress and there were costumes in abundance at this event. The line up included Santas, Elves, and Christmas Puddings along with Where’s Wally and Scooby Doo...and distinctive pink outfits worn by members of Team Porcino – an altruistic triathlon and multisport club. 

Runners mingled outside Hook Norton Sports & Social Club and, whilst the weather was cold and grey, the atmosphere was warm and friendly amongst the runners as they waited to begin. 

At 11am they set off through the snow to follow a route that was testing underfoot and hilly as it wound its merry way around the villages of Hook Norton and Great Rollright. There was plenty of Christmas cheer from the marshals who clapped and encouraged runner with a smile on their faces in spite of the wintry conditions. The mulled wine station gave everyone a boost!

First home was Henry Sleight in 45:32 followed by Chris McKeown of Spa Striders in 45:54. McKeown’s teammate John-Paul Hunt was third in 49:24. 

Charlotte Everard of Spa Striders was the first female in 52:24 with Claire True of Alchester RC second in 53:13. Kelsey Wiberley of Spa Striders was third in 55:54. 

The full set of results is available via the runABC Midlands Race Listings page.        

Christmas puddings for the winning man and woman plus age category winners; mince pies and (more) mulled wine for all finishers and a warm glow of satisfaction from all involved. 
           
Image courtesy of Patsy Smiles.