Vets in action for match three
WADAC Veterans Shine Bright in Basingstoke Showdown
Hampshire Veterans League – Match 3 | Monday 9 June 2025 | Basingstoke Report by Nick F
Under clear June skies in Basingstoke, Winchester & District AC’s veterans made their mark in Match 3 of the 2025 Hampshire Veterans League, combining competitive grit with club firsts and record-breaking performances. With contributions across all age categories, it was an evening that underscored Winchester’s strength in depth and the spirit of the team.
Women: Middle-Distance Magic and Strong All-Round Showings
The Winchester women’s team placed 4th overall, amassing 91 points, just behind Havant (93.5) and within touching distance of Basingstoke (107). Aldershot led the field with 121.5 points, but Winchester’s night was defined not by standings alone—but by heart, drama, and sheer determination.
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the W35 1500m, which delivered one of the most exciting finishes of the league season so far. Kiralie Leigh-Jones, showing tactical poise and fearless acceleration, surged to the front with 200m to go. But the race was far from over. Basingstoke’s Rebecca Sleap, producing a perfectly timed response, began to close rapidly in the final metres. In a nail-biting finale, Kiralie held her off in a photo finish, winning by the finest of margins. It was a memorable win for Winchester and a showcase of elite-level competition within the club ranks. Such was the engrossing nature of Kiralie’s 1500m race that one competitor in the men's shot put actually missed the call for his second throw!
Another momentous achievement for the women's squad came from the women’s medley relay team of Tracey Bezance-Collins, Amanda Smith, Sian Lewis & Kiralie Leigh-Jones. They set a new club record of 4:45.9, eclipsing the previous record of 4:47.6 set in 2017 at Basingstoke.
Elsewhere, Sian Lewis demonstrated her usual quality, winning the W35A 400m in an outstanding time of 63.8. Alongside her, Alison Wheeler put in an impressive shift in the W35B 400m race, demonstrating the wealth of talent across the women’s squad.
Veterans Charlie Hoskins and Emma Carter again played pivotal roles, scoring valuable points in the 1500m, adding poise and experience to a high-performing endurance team.
Men: Records Fall, New Ground Broken, and Spirited Contributions
The Winchester men’s team also secured 4th place, with 95 points, just behind Aldershot (99), and ahead of Havant, Overton, Fleet, and Portsmouth. While the night belonged to Basingstoke (158) and Southampton (132), Winchester left with club records and milestones to celebrate.
In the M75 100m, veteran sprinter Keith Stone entered the history books as the first WADAC athlete to compete in this age category, capping his run with a new club record, a remarkable milestone in itself.
The M65 Shot Put delivered another historic moment for the club. Tim Sorrell, in his debut in the event opened with a throw of 6.49m, setting an initial club record. Moments later, Nick Fleeman (throwing for the first time since 1972) bettered it with an effort of 6.59m, giving WADAC two club records in one event, underlining the internal competitiveness that’s helping drive performances forward.
On the track Team Manager, Owen Watts (M50) and Rodolfo Rodriguez (M35) both put in exceptional performances, winning their respective 400m races. They also featured in the medley relay squad that finished in a strong 2nd place.
Paul Cox was another standout performer on the night. Competing in multiple disciplines, Paul’s contribution across both track and field was vital in bolstering the team’s points total. Whether stepping in at short notice or doubling up to fill gaps, his selfless approach and all-round athleticism were emblematic of the WADAC spirit, and deeply appreciated by the squad.
A special mention must go to Rodolfo Rodriguez, whose efforts across track, field and relay events continue to be instrumental. A tireless competitor, Rodriguez once again delivered crucial points and exemplified the team-focused ethos that has defined WADAC’s veterans this season.
Match Results – Team Scores
Women’s Standings:
· Aldershot – 121.5
· Southampton – 112
· Basingstoke – 107
· Winchester – 91
· Havant – 93.5
· Overton – 69
· Fleet – 44
· Portsmouth – 10
Men’s Standings:
· Basingstoke – 158
· Southampton – 132
· Aldershot – 99
· Winchester – 95
· Portsmouth – 111
· Havant – 65
· Fleet – 37
· Overton – 35
Looking Ahead
Winchester left Basingstoke with much more than points: the club returned with new club records, a thrilling photo-finish victory, and historic firsts that highlight the vibrancy and competitive ambition of WADAC’s veteran athletes.
With eyes now set on Match 4 at Aldershot (Monday 21 July), momentum is undeniably building. This is a squad that continues to push boundaries, whether through blistering sprints, or contending dramatic middle-distance races to the very last stride. The dedication and camaraderie on display are a testament to the strength of WADAC.