Swanley XC – KFL 2025/26 Race 1

November 9, 2025

A lovely mild and sunny autumnal morning found TRAC starting their first cross country race of the season.

On a historical note, the KFL started life as the ‘Todays Runner League’ in the late 1980s. The purpose was to promote cross country for runners of all abilities. Elite runners were and still are banned from entering this competition. It started life with 5 clubs (of which TRAC were a founding member) and around 70 runners turning up at races. Now it is called the Kent Fitness League, has about 18 participating clubs and for the first fixture there was 665 runners.

A really great turn out for Thanet this year. 45 club runners signed up and on the day 30 of us took part. A special mention to XC first timers Stephen Woodus, Hannah Golightly, Dan Grech, Tim McLellan, David Davey, James Figgins and Rowan Tyler who all put in an outstanding effort.

It was my first time as men’s captain, so I had to make sure I was there in good time to hand out the race numbers, offer advice + provide hot water, coffee, tea etc for the post-race celebrations.

Jo the ladies captain sadly couldn’t make this one because of injury (a big loss to the ladies team), but I’m sure she’ll be back stronger and quicker soon. Her advice to me in the lead up to this race has been invaluable. Thanks Jo.

The mandatory talking about footwear and I think trail shoes were the order of the day. Some team chatting / tactics, a warm up then a great team photo by our gazebo.

As always, the race starts with a period of silence to remember the fallen.

Race nerves kick in, but before you know, it’s 11 am and we’re off!!

It’s a nice flat start, so after the initial sprint to get into the right position (and near pile up by the railway line), it’s a case of easing off and save yourself for later. As per previous years, it’s 1 small lap, then 2 larger ones. Not too hilly this one, with a few short sharp ups and a steadier up through a wooded section.

On the larger loop there was a long plastic track which was like a trampoline in places and then strangely running by a circus, luckily no loose wild animals or clowns.

Great support out on the course from the TRAC family and other well-wishers. Rowans supporters were brilliant as was Ade Neaves who was cheering and taking many photos (hopefully not too many dodgy ones…)

Afterwards the great TRAC spirit kicks in, with everyone cheering home the rest of the team. Apparently, a stand out moment was Dan Grechs ‘Usain Bolt’ sprint then dip for the finish line (we need footage for this?!?). Also Anna’s cross the finish line face was amazing.

A great day is then rounded off with a delicious assortment of home baked goodies. As always Chris Pascoe delivered not only in the mud but with his cupcakes too.

What a great day. Well done everyone!!

Some outstanding performances today and out of 18 very competitive clubs, we finished:

Men’s team – 2nd (possibly highest finish ever?)
Ladies team – 7th (a few key players were missing)
Combined team – 4th

And a top effort from every other TRAC non team scoring member (me included) who helped support the teams by being there, covering all age categories and pushing the opposition further down the pecking order!

A special mention to Andy Jones V60 who came 4th overall in his age category and made a big difference to the men’s team result.

Onwards now to Oxleas Wood in 2 weeks time (23rd Nov). Please try and turn out in force again, as this fixture clashes with the TRAC Benidorm Half, so we will be missing quite a few of the team.

See below link for today’s results:

https://kfl.canterburyharriers.org/xc_result.php?id=21646