SAM Butt waved the flag for Hale School as he raced to victory in the under 11s category of the Hampshire Cross Country Championships.

Despite soggy running surfaces, the primary school pupil finished in first place for New Forest Juniors Athletics Club among a pack of more than 70 boys from clubs across Hampshire.

Sam’s win delighted school athletics coach Rachel Jones.

“This is an incredible achievement for Sam,” she said.

“His win today reflects the training he does every week all year at Hale School's Running Club – not only is he an exceptional athlete but is also a fantastic role model for all the young runners at Hale School.”