Hampshire Cross Country Championships

Competition kicked off early in 2026 with the Hampshire County Cross Country Championships on Saturday 3 January at a frosty Fairthorne Manor, Botley.

Matilda Saunders from Team Kennet raced in the U11 girls event which quickly developed into a head to head battle between Matilda and an athlete from Southampton Athletics Club with the lead repeatedly changing hands. Matilda eventually finished in 2nd place securing a County silver medal.

Olivia Bentley also from Team Kennet, raced over 4km in the U15 girls event. Olivia made a solid start but, with some strong running through the wooded section, she progressed through the field to take an excellent 7th place in a tightly packed finish. This result places Olivia in a strong position for Hampshire team consideration.