THE Reebok International cross country event is being staged at Margate's Hartsdown Park on Sunday, November 18, with around 500 runners expected to take part in a variety of events. The main race will go towards selection for the UK team to take part in European cross country events.

Hayley Yelling, who narrowly missed Olympic squad selection, is among the quality field.

On Sunday, December 2, Thanet Roadrunners AC, holds the Margate Coastal 10, a 10km race on a flat and fast course along seafront promenades. Further details from www.thanetroadrunners.freeserve.co.uk

Last Sunday's Thanet marathon, Kent’s only 26-mile event, attracted a strong entry. A new course was run this year at what is still regarded as one of the toughest events on the marathon calendar.

Winner was 53-year-old Trevor Edgely from Invicta East Kent. His time of 2hr.46.34 was a personal best and marked his first marathon win of his running career. Gary Butcher from Deal Triathlon Club was second in 2hr.52.07, with Thanet Roadrunners AC member Paul Valek third in 2hr.53.11

First woman home was Siri Terjesen from London Goodenough Trust in 3hr 18.03. Tunbridge Wells Harrier Sian Roberts was second in 3hr 25.20 and Carol Emery from Paddock Wood AC was third in 3hr 35.

The half marathon was won by Tim Bailey from Thanet Roadrunners AC. Jim McNeil from Medway and Maidstone AC was second and Greg Stevens from Sevenoaks AC third.

Steve Adelseberg from Thanet RRC said: “The conditions were perfect, cool with a slight breeze. The course this year was moved inland away from the coastal paths but it still proved a tough test, particularly on the hills around Acol and St Nicholas.

Next year the organisers are looking at a completely new course around the island but a route and a date are yet to be confirmed.