Croydon Harriers enjoyed two individual wins and a team victory at the opening Downs League fixture at Epsom Downs on Sunday, writes Matthew Kiernan.

Michael Eagling kicked off a successful morning for Croydon taking the win in the U11s 1.5 mile race in 11.06, more than 10 seconds clear of his nearest rival. Angus Harrington (11.36) enjoyed an exciting debut in the same race finishing fourth in the 60 strong-field.

In the U13s, Omar Harhara was the club’s sole representative, finishing a solid runner-up in 12.12 over the two-mile course.

Kartik Iyer (third, 11.35) spearheaded Croydon’s challenge in the U15 race, with Laurence Johnston (fourth, 12.02) in close contention. Stevie Lawrence won the girl’s category in 12.17 and Holly Haile clocked 12.24 for third. The quartet ensured the Harriers topped the team standings as they seek to defend the title they won 12 months ago.

Further down the field, Stirling Gibbons (13th, 12.51) and Cora Sexton (35th, 15.49) provided non-scoring support.

Elsewhere, the senior team enjoyed their best result over the Priory Relays in Reigate since 2006, finishing 15th in the 29 club field.

The standout performance came courtesy of Alan Burn who clocked 15.51 in the 6x2.5mile event, the 37th fastest time of the day out of the 180 competitors. The rest of the team consisted of Jaran Finn (63rd, 16.07), Colin Oxlade (79th, 16.33), Andy Del Nevo (84th, 16.46) and Eric Campbell (177th, 24.43).