Saturday 13th February 2016
The increasingly popular MACCL had its final (and 5th), race weekend at Wythenshawe Park yesterday.
Sale Harriers had worked wonders under the guidance of Dave Rodgers to stage the event. The course had to change a number of times in the week of the race, such were the conditions.
The League is run over a series of five races hence key outcomes were due to be won and lost in the mud of Wythenshawe.
Cross Country is a very different discipline to “Road Running”, but should never be ignored as its great strength training for the summer track and road races. Its also how I cut my teeth in the late 60’s and onwards. I am perhaps a touch more starry eyed than others in my love of the country!
Due to the changed courses, one advantage yesterday was that start/finish/tents etc. were all very close together. This only added to the atmosphere, although with the noise, challenging for officials (recorders etc.)
Within our own runners, there were a number of outcomes to be decided.
The Ladies were in a straight relegation fight against Macclesfield but came through with flying colours. Sharon Johnstone had a fine great run, finishing 5th and 1st FV40 (& FV35!), claiming some notable scalps. 194 finishers.
Relegation avoided!
Overall, Katy Green was 3rd V40 and Janine Ellis 2nd V45.
The Men as always were the last race of the day and did themselves proud…Peter Speake ran his first race of the series post injury, led the team home, and should be very happy with his 18th position.
Showing why he has been so dominant for so long over the country, Malcolm (with little training), finished 48th…Further back Rob Dunkley continued his comeback and improves race by race. 300 Finished.
Overall, Andrew Whittingham was 3rd V45, Rob 1st V50, Tom 1st V60.
The men won Vets medals and I think the ladies too… 2nd (Div One) Vet Ladies team behind Sale. Strange to say, but when presenting all the awards, its not just my own club that I focus on… Apologies, someone can add the positions while we await full team and confirmed results!
I hope those that attended the presentation enjoyed picking up their medals in comfort or supporting their fellow team mates. The raffle prizes were provided by Running Bear…Two pairs of the excellent Ground Control Shoe…Thanks Tony.
So the season comes to a finish… Sadly, we have no team in the Nationals this year.
Thanks to all that have supported the teams over the year in inclement conditions…Yesterday, Sarah Miles, Don, Kate, Roy, Simon and Trevor (unusually missing a XC race!)…Apologies if I missed anyone.
Paul Sanders has helped marshall at each race and Andy Watts has helped as an official at the last three races. Without helpers, we have no race.
Rob Downs and Apteco are the official League Sponsor, with the Waters Wilmslow Half Marathon a sub sponsor…Thank you.
See you in October when it all starts again, but before that the League holds its AGM on Wednesday 16th March.
Well done all,
Nick
Well done everyone.