SOUTHAMPTON Running Club are gearing up one of the busiest weekend's on their summer calendar.

On Sunday, they stage the 18th running of the ever-popular Netley 10K Road Race around Victoria Country Park (10.30am start).

But first comes a hectic Saturday with many of the squad defending their various county age-group titles in the Isle Wight Marathon and the veteran runners heading off to Sutton Coldfield, near Birmingham, for the National Veterans' Road Relays.

Despite entries for the Netley 10K nudging past the 350 mark, runners will still be able enter on the day (up to 10am) at the registration tent in the centre of the park.

For the second year running the race is being sponsored by solicitors Eric Robinson and the added bonus for athletes is that they will be able to ease their aching limbs with a pre or post-race massage from which proceeds will be donated to the Wessex Cancer Trust.

While John Rooker warmed up for the National Vets' Relays by recording a five-year best time of 36 minutes and 55 seconds in the Blackpool Promenade 10K, several other SRC athletes were involved in the Alton 10K.

Vet 40 runner Malcolm Riddle led the way in 22nd spot, clocking 61 minutes and 57 seconds, ahead of Mike Smith (vet-50, 32nd, 62.52), Alan Tulip (vet-45, 36th, 63.19), Scott Augur (56th, 65.56), Richie Pearson (vet-50, 57th, 65.57), Matthew West (86th, 68.04), Pete Staunton (vet-45, 143rd, 72.30), Angela Prentice (women's vet-45, 187th, 75.09), Jon Cole (209th, 77.13), Ken Hawkins (vet-50, 211th, 77.19).

SRC's men finished fourth on the day in the Hampshire Road Race League standings, but have been overshadowed by Winchester & District who need only turn up for the final event at Brading to be crowned men's A, B and women's champions.