The road handicap held by Wallasey Athletic Club last Saturday proved fairly successful for there was a total field of 16 runners in the two races.
There was some good running in spite of the continual rain and those members who took part seemed to enjoy the run. The handicapping in particular was very good, especially in the boy's race where the first seven finished within forty-five seconds.
The boy's race was over 2½ miles and the flat course provided some fast times. The first man home was Ken Poyning, a promising young W.G.S. runner though his style seems a little vigorous for long distance running. He was followed by Ron Barlow. Ron is almost a veteran now, , but as he was off scratch he could note quite catch Ken, after working his way through the field. In third place was Tony Townsend. A good run but I am wondering if he is doing too much racing lately. Tony Farrell in 4th place seems to have improved lately and so has Phil Townsend who finished 5th. Eddie Williams and Dave White finished 6th and 7th respectively. The fastest time was by Ron Barlow, who returned 15 mins. 58 secs.
The youths, juniors and seniors ran a combined race over 3½ miles, as Ditton Lane war partly flooded and avoiding the potholes served to allay any boredom which may have resulted from running down Leasowe Road.
The first men home was John Lynch. John seemed to like the going and finished well ahead of a much improved Brian Woolford. Woolly, who has had a couple of off seasons seems to be finding his form again, so this promises well for next year's junior team. In third place was John Ryan who, after being fairly well up for the early part of the race faded slightly towards the end. In fourth place was Pete White who also liked the going. He just pipped Ian McIvor into fifth position. Dave Johnson who finished sixth, ran better than I thought he would, and should do well this track season. Bill Farrell who finished seventh was very disappointing. He has been missing training lately and is paying the penalty now. The fastest time was by Pete White, who turned in 19 mins. 34 secs.
This Saturday there will be a club run from the H.Q. at Leasowe. All interested will be welcome and perhaps the track runners will benefit from a little fartlek training.
Anyone interested should contact either Mr. R.F. Hubbard, 44 Tollemache Street, Wallasey, or Mr. Woolley, 8 Bradman Road, Moreton.
Ends
Source - Wallasey News - Saturday, 02/04/1955 by SPIKE
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