Cross-country challenge underway

John Halligan started the defence of his Manx Gas Cross Challenge title on Sunday winning the first round of the 2007/2008 series at Noble's Park.

The Island Games gold medal winner finished 24 seconds ahead of Kevin Loundes who was over a minute faster than Nigel Armstrong.

Gail Griffiths and Sarah Nelson shared last year's title, but Griffiths edged Sunday's contest by 30 seconds. Marit Zahkna was third.

17 year old Conor Delanbanque won over the short course with Michael Haslett second and David Munro third.

Other age group winners:

Junior men - Ben Brand
Under 17 boys - Jack Leece
Under 17 girls - Gemma Astin
Under 15 girls - Sarah Astin
Under 13 boys - Adam Young
Under 13 girls - Alexandra Ross
Under 11 boys - Will Morris
Under 11 girls - Rebecca Nathan
Under 9 boys - Patrick Cox
Under 9 girls - Aimee Cringle