A small race with a big heart, the Hooky 6 took place on Sunday 8 August after being cancelled last year due to Covid-19. This year’s event had a few changes as per the pandemic but was still popular as ever.

An annual summer race from Hook Norton Harriers who also organise the Christmas Canter, this 6 miler usually sells out and has a reputation for friendliness and excellent marshals in a picturesque location. Sunday was its 35th outing and there were smiles, waves and thumbs up from many of the runners as they made their way around the village of Hook Norton in Oxfordshire.

Starting on the field in front of the Sports & Social Club, participants headed away to follow an undulating, two lap course with mile markers through the village and countryside before they finished back on the sports field. Runners were advised to carry their own form of hydration, i.e. handheld bottles, as water stations were not allowed following a Covid-19 risk assessment

Duncan Lawrence of Oxford City AC won the 35th Hooky 6 Road Race in 34:17. James Olliffe of Brackley and District RC was second in 35:09 and Matthew Yapp of Croft Ambrey RC third in 35:35.

Claire True of Alchester RC was the winning female in 40:38, more than a minute ahead of teammate Katharine Earley who took second in 41:45. Madeleine Ding of Headington RR was third in 42:35.

The last runner finished in 1:15:37. 

All the results can be viewed via the RunABC Midlands Race Listings page.

Whilst the race was different from the norm it was well-run and enjoyable as more and more events return to what they do best and what we have all missed in the past 16 months.   

Photo by Barry Cornelius.