UK Cross Challenge and European trials

Four of our athletes made the long  journey to Sefton Park in Liverpool and came away with some excellent results. Snow, which thawed during the week, had left a lot of standing water on the course, which was made worse by the heavy rain and strong winds on the actual day. It was like a mudbath out there.

Under 11 Boys

Raphael Thomas, who only joined WGEL a few months ago, was relishing the chance of running against top opposition. When the family moved from East London to Sawbridgeworth in Herts, Raphael started in a new school where his current coach was already working - hence the move to WGEL. Coach and athlete were targeting a top 10 position and, barring a few seconds, nearly achieved that. Raphael placed 13th from the 200-odd starting field. Although disappointed with his run, he also was determined he would return in a year's time. The race of 2k was won by Carson of Bridgend and this race, like all the others, dragged in athletes from all over the UK. It was a fine effort from Raphael indeed.

Under 15 Boys

We had two Woodies on the start line for the 3k race from around 180 starters. This field had all the leading contenders from the UK and, soon after the start, George Watkins was right up there with the leading pack. Daniel Arnold was also prominent, in the early twenties. George was asked not to venture in front in the horseshoe part of the course and stuck to that instruction. Coming back into the main part of the concourse Withnall (English Schools 1500m champion) and Alem (English Schools XC Champion ) broke away from the rest. Approaching the top end of the park with around 500 metres to go, the two leaders were neck and neck, but our athlete rallied brilliantly up the hill to be in 3rd place going into the final part of the course. Withnall and Alem battled it out for the lead right to the end and a photo finish was required to decide the winner. George had slipped to 6th with 200 metres to run but a tremendous finish got our lad back to 4th spot, just behind the Welsh Champion, Parry. Daniel, meanwhile, having an inspired race, was 24th - just 30 seconds separating our two runners. The lads loved the occasion so much, the atmosphere, etc., leaving them contemplating competing in the series in the New Year.

Under 20 Men

This was a trial over 4.4k and it was a loaded field to say the least. Henry Dover was back from the USA to defend the title he won last year. By now the course was shocking and it was lashing down with rain when the field of 160 got away. In recent months Nathan Wright has made great strides with his running and, although the mud is not his favourite terrain, he gave a great account of himself, finishing 32nd. He was  only 45 seconds behind Dover. Nathan should be pleased with this run and should look forward to more great runs in the championship races after Xmas.

All four athletes were superb in tough conditions against many of the best in the UK. They should all take great confidence from their performance at Sefton Park.

Next up for all four lads is the short trip to Uxbridge, where George Watkins will make his Met League debut.

Finally, a big Thank You to the parents for making the long trip to Liverpool for the benefit of the athlete. It’s really appreciated.