It was a day when the weather gods did not smile, so conditions were very wet, soft and slippery for the 2nd running of this popular event.

There were 550 entries, an increase of 60% over last year but unfortunately the runners were greeted by continuous rain and drizzle. Despite this, spirits were high and the atmosphere cheerful.

Entries were received from USA, Germany and all over Southern England, a tribute to the Event marketing and reputation.

Robert Sackville West, Lord Sackville kindly came along with his daughter to talk to spectators and competitors and he welcomed them all before starting both the 10k and the 2k races.

First race to finish was the 2k Fun Run, won by 13 yrs old Amy Captain from Chailey in 8 mins. 19 sec. , 2nd was 12 yrs old Hanna Lunn from Rotherfield in 8 mins. 47 sec. and 3rd 12 yrs old Alistair Bishop from Sevenoaks in 9 mins 01 sec., excellent times in the conditions.

Winner of the 10k this year was Andrew Walpole of the City of Norwich Athletics Club in a new record time of 36 mins. 35 sec. 2nd was Nick Harris from Watford Harriers just 7 seconds behind with Andrew Vlidowski just 4 seconds away in 3rd place. 4th was Philip Avery from Crawley Athletic Club a further 8 seconds back.

First lady was 17 year old Danielle Hurley from Orpington Road Runners in the fast time of 40 mins. 05 sec. With Maria Heslop 39 seconds back in 2nd place and Viv Mitchell from South London Harriers was 3rd lady a further 3 mins. 5 sec. behind.

The Mens` Team prize was won by Sevenoaks A.C. and collected by Mark Haworth who himself finished a creditable 8th.

The Marshalls around the Entry area and on the Course, who were mainly Sevenoaks Rotarians and friends including a few Explorer Scouts from Kemsing, all did an efficient and heroic job in dreadful conditions. Race Chairman Brian Brauns and Race Director John Walker supported by a few stalwarts have devoted a massive amount of time and effort to make the event a great success.

Principle beneficiary of the event this year is Sevenoaks Age Concern and it is hoped that the Run will show a surplus of between £4000 and £5000, all for charity.

Main Sponsors were Knocker & Foskett for the 2nd time, and Ibbett Moseley as well as Sevenoaks Chronicle/Courier Group, The Vine Magazine and Davis Garage who provided field transport and a donation. Support facilities from Sencio at the Sevenoaks Leisure Centre and services from Sevenoaks Computer Shop were invaluable. Healthy energy bananas were kindly provided by Fyffes. There were none left at the end!

The essential Website www.sevenoaksrotary10k.co.uk was provided and maintained by John Hubbard of Otford.net.