WALMER runner Neil Renault capitalised on Mike Coleman's absence to win the 2004 Dover Mercury Half Marathon (Kevin Redsull writes).

The in-form Coleman, from Dover, was unable to defend the title he won in such convincing style last year after receiving a late call-up for the England cross-country team for a meet in Belgium.

Renault, third behind Coleman 12 months ago, took full advantage to cruise home more than two minutes in front of another local competitor, Theo Bately of Deal Tri Club.

Renault, a former Deal Tri member who now competes for the Medway & Maidstone Club, crossed the line in 1 hour 13 min 10 sec, with Bately second and David Hall (Dartford Harriers) third.

The race date clashed with two other Kent road races, but still attracted a strong field of 540 competitors, including runners from the USA and Australia and all over the UK. It was again based at the Duke of York's RM School.

The Mayor of Dover, Cllr George Allt, attended on the day and took on a number of tasks, including starting the races and helping out with theprize-giving ceremonies.

Renault, 20, a science degree student who lives in Walmer Way, said: "I felt strong all the way around and could have gone quicker, if I had been pushed by someone.

"My personal best for the half marathon is 1:10.30 in the AAA Half Marathon last year. But the Dover is a much tougher course, and so I am pleased with my time."

Bately, also from Walmer, was Renault's only serious challenger, despite giving away 20 years to the youngster and missing most of last year due to a succession of injuries. At times during the 13.1 miles, Batelylooked to be reeling in the leader, but he finished just over two minutes behind, in 1:15:22.

The ladies' race was won by Michelle Flaxton, of Dartford Road Runners, in 1:27:44. Her club-mate, Angela Kefford-Watson, was second in 1:28:55.

Race organiser Bryan May said: "I would like to thank all the helpers, marshals and road users for their patience waiting for the race to pass.

"The club would also like to thank Hargreaves Sports, Holiday Extra, Kent Motorcycles, the Duke of York's School and the Kent Messenger Group for supporting the event.

"There was some confusion on the day about the handing out of coffee mugs to the competitors. If anyone did not get one, I would ask them to contact me on 01304 239936, and I will try to organise something."