After all the speculation in the 48 hours leading up to the race , the all clear was given late afternoon Friday : The race was to go ahead !
Following a slow start at Heaton Park , we had an excellent turn out at Sherdley Park and an equally excellent performance from all.
To get amongst the medals both by team and individual , we could afford no slip ups in the remaining races starting with BHC …..With the league holding a presentation Hot Pot in the Holiday Inn after the final race at Clayton Vale on 12th February , we needed to repeat our Sherdley Park performance …….And the result ……Again , both men and women finish 3rd team and both win their vets events . Another race down and two to go ! Fantastic !
BHC is traditionally the muddiest of the courses but this time had the added element of the slippery snow and ice : with the weather at 3' it was a little milder but testing for the runners . Despite the conditions , we had an excellent turnout and the new club gazebo was there for all to enjoy .
Our ROTM , Clare Stevenson led the ladies home in 8th with Louise right behind in 13th : Stalwart Katy Green was 22nd and Captain Kate saw the team home in 28th. Two seconds separated Nicki in 33rd and Sharon in 34th with an even closer margin of one second between Janine and Christine in 51st and 52nd and Huma 59th : 111 finishers.
Damian nursing a head ache (?) made up ground after a subdued start with Malcolm doing his best raging bull impersination with a storming last 200 yards to be our first two counters…..10th and 19th : Trafford and Salford on their own course were out in force , we needed a good packing for our next four counters .Rob 27th and Jim 31st were next in with Graham 33rd and Tom 38th completing the counters .Rob in 88th , Ian 99th , Andy 127th , Paul G 143rd , Peter 153rd , Paul N 171st ,Jon 182nd , Gavin 183rd , Ian 211th and Trevor 235th completed the placings .
Another fine effort . Well done all and thanks to Dave , Paul , Nina and George for the support : Every place counts in a team event and the cheers helped everyone on : Its appreciated .
Next race at Woodbank Park , Sunday 2nd January .
Nick.