We finally managed to get the second stag race of the season off on the 12th of December on a crisp evening in Leighton. Whilst the temperatures were low, the lack of rain meant no ice at all on the course and the complete lack of a breeze made for very good running conditions in the end.

The cold temperatures and the date of the race clearly didn't help numbers as we were reduced to just 13 hardy souls on the night, but the conditions meant that seven of them beat their handicap and even the final finisher earned 13 points.

On his first night with the club, possible new member John Boulder was led around the course by Tom May and made the most of his unknown ability to come home first much to the annoyance of Tom Inchley. In 22 years with the club he has never won a stag race, and that run continues today thanks to John! Tom is delighted!!

Tom's 14.22 represented what is a return to form for Tom after a few years below his best, but his second place was only achieved by a solitary second as Fiona (the only lady brave enough to come out) took third place and 23 points. Richard surprised himself with 19.13 to take fourth ahead of Gary Stratford, while Warren Rose achieved his second PB in two races with 15.45.

Two other notable performances were Stuart Wightman making his debut in the race 15 years after his brother and Chris Mills doing his second after race after a 14 year gap. He was a minute quicker 14 years ago.

These results mean that after two races Warren sits at the top of the table with 43 points ahead of Tom Inchley on 41. The next race should be on Wednesday 2nd January, weather permitting.