Jay Donawa took full advantage of the absence of Kavin Smith to romp to a convincing win at the National Cross Country Championships at Astwood Park on Saturday.

But the chance visit of a top runner from overseas robbed local female champion Anna Eatherley of what had been expected to be a straightforward victory.

With rival Lynn Patchett opting out ahead of the upcoming New York Marathon, Eatherley was hot favourite to add the cross country crown to a string of road race triumphs in the last year.

Instead she found herself in a titanic battle with visitor Amory Rowe, a New England college champion, who shadowed her every move over the 4.5 mile course.

And at the finish it was Rowe who had the stronger legs, outkicking her rival to win in 27 minutes, 26 seconds.

Eatherley had to settle for second in 27.50 with Penelope Butterfield a distant third in 33.38.

Donawa, meanwhile, dominated from start to finish over the men's 7.2 mile route, cruising to a comfortable win in 38.12.

Tracy Wright took second in 41.45 with leading master Sylvester Jean-Pierre third across the line in 42.34.

Full senior and junior results

see Scoreboard.