Because of organisational problems and having a more acceptable course, Highgate Harriers chose Aldershot’s Rushmoor Arena to compete on September 24th, and had a much harder task than had they raced at the Southern relays at Crystal Palace the same afternoon. Nevertheless, out of 66 teams the men’s ‘A' team came fifth making the cut easily and the women were sixth out of 44 club teams, also qualifying for the National event. All very creditable. Eight club teams go forward as definite qualifiers for the National Road Relay at Sutton Coldfield on October 8th and the first eight from the meeting at Crystal Palace also qualify by right.
Out of all the club runners that took part in the men’s 6x6km, Jacob Allen was the fourth fastest overall and Alex Lepetre seventh fastest.
The Highgate Harriers six 'star' runners with their stage times were: Robel Bahelbi 18:19; Taha Ghafari 19:22; Alex Lepetre 17:50; Pete Chambers 18:10; Alex Bampton 18:46; and Jacob Allen 17:42. A total time 1:50:10. The winning team was the host club Aldershot Farnham & District AC 1:48:03. Highgate's ‘B' team did well to come 26th. It was noted that for the Men's B' team Terry Fawden ran a fast second leg in 18:27. Highgate Harriers 'C' team were 46th, all pointing to the fact that Highgate Harriers men are so strong they should be able to win the Metropolitan League out of the 23 clubs that compete in the event. The first one at Woodford on October 15th.
On Saturday in the women’s 4x6km, the Highgate team that came sixth comprised: Nina Griffith 20:58; Hannah Viner 21:06; Karina Thornton 22:39; and Zoe Macdonald 22:51. The team’s overall time was 1:27:34. The winning team was the host club Aldershot Farnham & District AC 1:21:11.
Highgate’s team manger Ben Pochee remarked that "Taha Ghafari had some breathing problems on his leg and had to walk at one stage or Highgate would have more than likely made the podium”. “However, Taha is now quite OK and running again." Press Secretary Alastair Aitken said.