The irony of the GIAAC's winter season starting on one of the hottest days of the year was matched by the irony of Mark Anthony, co driver to Mike Doyle in the recent Baltic 2000 Rib Race, leading his pilot home.

Displaying one of his characteristic fast starts Anthony quickly built up a lead of 50 yards within the first quarter mile. After tracking Des Torrance over the opening ½ mile Doyle took up the chase but was never able to close down the long striding leader who extended his margin to win by nearly 40 seconds in a time of 14 minutes 45 seconds.

Veteran distance runner Brian Holden followed Doyle across the line a further 25 seconds behind.

Anthony's pace over the initial stages confirmed the belief of many observers that his true potential lies as a middle distance runner.