Wallasey Athletic Club travelled to Bolton to compete in the Northern Counties Championships over hilly and heavy moorland country. We were right out of luck and had a totally blank day in all sections.
Brightest performance was, perhaps, that of Alan Howard who was fifteenth in the boys' race. This was the first Northern for all our boys and their inexperience of the bigger races was reflected in their finishing position. John Howard was second runner home at 96th with Jeff Melia 128th and Billy Gregory 149th.
The senior race was next on the programme and once more we were only able to start five runners. Dave Standfast arriving at the course to see the race already under way. Brian Woolford ran very well to finish 62nd, in his first year in senior competition. Next up for the club was Hugh Pritchard 84th, Pete White was 145th in his first race at the 9 mile distance. Neil Arthur was 195th but still a long way from being last in this 300 strong field. In the junior race, the club's hopes of gaining one of the minor team places were dashed when it was seen that Ron Barlow had given up before, the half distance. Tony Townsend 37th and his brother Phil Towsend 67th were first up for the club. Dave Noble 147th completed the team.
Today the club have entered teams in the St. Asaph - Rhyl Road Race.
The date for the club's hot-pot supper has been fixed for April 4th at the Rock Point Hotel. Club members and friends are advised to make early application for tickets from any member of the social committee - Messrs. R. Hubbard, J. Prydderch, C. W. Gee. B. Stakes, C. R. Hewson, R. Owen and P. Townsend.
For members not travelling to Rhyl this afternoon, a club run will be held from the club room, Leasowe Road, at 3:00 p.m.
Ends
Source - Wallasey News - Saturday, 21/02/1959 by R.J.
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