Baker's perfect timing with Gosport triumph

The start of the Gosport Half Marathon race as James Baker, wearing 85, hits the front early on. Picture: Neil Marshall

James Baker and Bryher Bowness took the victories.

All the runners were delighted to race in perfect weather, a very welcome contrast to previous years.

Chichester’s Baker completed the course in 1hr 09min 50sec with Daniel Eckersley in second (1.09.57).

The Gosport Half Marathon was a big success on Sunday

The atmosphere created by the marshals and supporters was fantastic as Gosport Road Runners hosted a superb show.

Baker was very happy with his race time and it will open up some good opportunities for him in 2018.

He said: ‘I was delighted with the run, I was aiming to get sub-70 minutes to qualify for elite entry to some more races next year such as Reading Half Marathon and Brighton Marathon.’

Southampton’s Bowness took the ladies’ title with an excellent time of 1.18.19.

City of Portsmouth’s Emma Jolley recorded a time 1.20.49 to take second place and was thrilled with her run.

She said: ‘I was very pleased with my result – both time and finishing positions on Sunday. It was a big PB.’

Julie Caudle and Shirley Belcher, from the Isle of Wight, completed their 12th half marathon of the year together for charity.