Wimbledon Common, Roehampton on Saturday 09/03/1878 (Senior Men)

THE CROSS-COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIP

Being the only event of any importance in the London district on Saturday the cross-country championship attracted a big field, fewer than 34 athletes doing their best to elevate club into the coveted position. The result, though not altogether unexpected by those who have watched the vast strides made by this rising young club, was far more decisive than even the most sanguine of the Spartans could have anticipated, four out of first five places falling to that club, and their total coming to 37 against 51 of the Thames Hare and Hounds, and 104 of the South London Harriers, last-named club certainly lost the services of J. Gibb, its best man; but even had he run and won as no doubt he would - the result could not have been effected thereby, although, of course, the figures would have been greatly altered.

The times were very last, so much so in fact that inquiry was made to whether course bad been fairly run through, when it transpired that a short cut had been taken, whereby the 11¾ miles that should have been run was shortened into a spin of about 10 miles, but still P. H. Stenning (TH and H) and G. Mawby (Spartans), the first and second men, deserve every credit for their performance in accomplishing the distance in less than 67 minutes. Some of Spartans seemed think that Mawby would have won had the mistake in the course not been made; and probably match may arise out of the race, in which case, however, should stand last Saturday's winner, as he is a most consistent runner, and seems to run with good judgment.