Disqualification heartbreak for Army as Navy reaps rewards at cross country championships
A strong field of athletes took to the course for this year's Inter Services Cross Country Championships, where the women's event saw military runners set off on a challenging 8km course.
With the Army hosting the competition, the contenders for the title battled the grassy hills and boggy plains around Tedworth House in Tidworth.
Last year's winner, Megan Davies from the Army, was unavailable to race on this occasion, and it was 2023 champion, Lieutenant Chelsea Baker, who emerged as the front runner.
In Baker's wake was Kate Olding. The talented athlete had returned to racing in an Army vest for the first time since recovering from a lengthy lay-off due to a double stress fracture.
There would be no stopping Bristol-based Baker, who powered her way to the finish line a full minute ahead of Olding.
The Royal Navy Sportswoman of the Year for 2024, gleefully came home first for the Senior Service. But her attention swiftly shifted from a rare cross country run to the demands of the London Marathon.
Following her victory, Lt Baker said: "Cross Country is always a bit of a surprise.
"I'm a road runner, I don't train for this, I turn up and want to do my best. So, I've been doing a lot of high mileage in the new year, training for London."
Following her fitness tribulations, Olding was pleased to claim the runners-up spot and is now desperate to stake a claim for international colours and race for England.
On the prospect of earning her national vest, the Cambridgeshire-based Captain said: "That's my number one goal at the minute.
"I know it's going to take a lot of patience and hard work, but I really would love to be in that position again, and hopefully I'll get that England vest."
Army heartbreak
Meanwhile, the men's event featured quality, established athletes and those racing for the first time as they embarked on a 10km circuit.
With support out on the course, the RAF put themselves in a strong position.
As the race progressed, it was Sam Griffiths from the Army who looked to be making it a dream debut.
The former full-time esports specialist weighed 20 stone just three years ago. However, a determination to join the Army and focus on fitness has seen the Brecon-based soldier take up running and shed almost half his bodyweight.
It would, however, be heartbreak for Griffiths. His fairytale finish faltered as he had raced wearing headphones, which is against the rules.
Despite finishing first he would later be disqualified, with the Navy's Callum O'Neill being bumped up a place to first and Chris Davies from the RAF now the men's runner-up.
The airmen took the men's team title, with the Army winning the women's prize.
The focus for several military distance athletes now switches to the London Marathon. That takes place on 26 April.
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