Students bid for repeat of relay success

Hallam tackled the flat, twisting cross-country course hoping to register vital points for overall series glory.

Eager to replicate their bronze medal-winning 2006/7 series position, the Hallam women's trio finished 12th, with a sparkling run from Rosie Edwards spearheading their challenge.

The Rotherham-born runner completed the first leg of the relay in 12:07, to bolster the Hallam bid, by coming home in second and registering the third-quickest time of the day in the process.

She was backed up by 15:03 and 13:56 runs from Natalie Owens and Kathryn Stevens, respectively, in a race which Birmingham University won.

Also fighting for Hallam, were the men's A squad of Dave Howlett, Michael Corbishley, Dave Archer, Charlie Fox, John Hedley and James Lavin. Lavin, on the final stage and Howlett, 14th on leg one, completed the course as fastest of the squad in times of 11:12 and 11:14, respectively.

The Hallam men's 'B' team came 39th, with Dan Fox, Matt Holmes and James Porteous completing two relay legs each.

The winter season sees the third year of the popular student competition additionally taking in the Birmingham, Leeds, Hyde Park, Teddy Hall and Nottingham Ed Prickett relays.

n Commonwealth 5000 metres silver medallist Jo Pavey is hoping to defend her BUPA Great South Run title in Portsmouth on October 28 as she battles back from injury.

Pavey was deeply disappointed when a groin problem forced her out of the recent Great North Run where she was set to face Paula Radcliffe in an eagerly-awaited head to head.

However, she has made excellent progress since the setback a month ago and is hoping to win a second successive Great South Run crown over 10 miles.