North Eastern Cross Country Championships – 9th December 2017

Undeterred by the freezing weather, several of our young athletes contested the North Eastern Cross Country Championships at Redcar Racecourse on 9 December.

The programme started with the non championship races for 9 and 10 year olds. Tristan Crang was 31^st in the boys while Annabel Milburn was 6^th and Iona Johnstone was 13^th in the girls – well done to all three runners.

The full championships got off to an excellent start with the club’s only team win, in the under 13 boys. They were led by Oliver Douglass in 8^th followed by Theo Barron, 12^th, and Noah Curran, 15^th. Oliver Ezeoke in 28^th and Ben Asquith 40^th both ran well while Cameron Marshall, in his second cross country race, was 73^rd.

Willow Morris in 17^th position led the under 13 girls team, with Sophie Johnstone in 33^rd and Freya Bell 34^th, to a creditable 8^th place. They were ably backed up by Jessica Milbun, 37^th, Jessica Ord 39^th and Lucy Oliver 43^rd.

In the under 15 boys, strong runs by Ethan McGlen in 6^th, David Race, 7^th, and Harry Morris 15^th, saw the team finish 3^rd in a close contest. Jack Garrett found it hard going but persevered to finish 53^rd.

The individual highlight for the club was Ines Curran’s clear victory over her local rivals, having led from the start as she continued her excellent recent form. Our only other under 15 runner was Jamilla Nessa who did well to finish in 49^th position.

The under 17/20 women were under strength and several of our runners were recovering from illness or injury. Nevertheless, the team finished 5^th, led by a fine run from Elisha Tait in 7^th with Chloe Wellings in 26^th and Amy Baker in 29^th positions. Emma Dixon ran strongly to finish 32^nd with Jasmine Crang finishing 41^st.

The under 17 men had to wait to the end of the race timetable. It was worth it, however, as they won well deserved 3^rd place medals, with Charlie McMillan charging through the field in 6^th position followed by James Morris in 13^th and Will Dixon in 15^th.

Overall, it was an encouraging day with many good performances by our young athletes. Well done to all competitors and thanks to parents and supporters for providing transport and their encouragement. Thanks also to the race organisers and officials.