A record field of 355 senior men ran in the Metropolitan League race on November the 7th, over a dry but very undulating course at Claybury, Woodford. (Race first run in October 1966).
    I talked to the first three exclusively for Running in London
    Neilson Hall ( 27;  !st in 24.41)
    " It was very satisfying last week to be in Bedford's winning National cross-country relay team but events like this are brilliant and bodes well for the future for me."
     What were his most satisfying results other than those this year?
    " 29.41 for 10k at Manchester. It was a PB and 8.06 for 3k in the Summer."
    He pointed out " I started running really young  I quit when I was at University for three or four years and went travelling round the World then, I fancied getting involved again"
    Mehretab Solomon ( London Heathside;19 years old; 2nd in 25.10)
     " I came from Eritrea in 2007. I have been running 11/2 years. My Father is supportive of my running. He said he had a dream that I would do well" Solomon had proved his worth when he led all the way in the Southern Inter-Counties 5000m at Chelmsford in the Summer."
   Steve Murphy (Shaftesbury Barnet, 26, 3d in 25.14)
"That was the best league result for me since 2004. Back in 2001, as a 19 year old, I was in the World Championships but I have had injuries since 2004 and an operation on a heel spur as well'
    " I am pleased to have started running well again and I want to do my best for my coach George Harrison.'
    'My job at the moment is a PE teacher which I enjoy doing"
    International JESSICA SPARKE  of Woodford Green & Essex Ladies looked so impressive winning the Women's race by over a minute. She is only just back from a hip injury that nearly lasted a year. Having been an
ECCU Champion at 17 and then again at 20, which one gave her the most satisfaction " The first one as a 17 year old"
At the moment she is doing just 40 miles a week but they have some quality sessions in them.
    One must point out that Highgate Harriers narrowly beat Woodford on their home course and may be heading for their eighth victory in the league in eight years, where as Woodford men could top the Men's league if they carry on the way they are going.