Wallasey's cross-country and track international Barbara Banks failed gallantly in her bid for a place in the England team for the Commonwealth Games.
As there is no 3,000 metres event in the Games, Barbara had been forced to attempt the 1,500 metres at the Women's A.A.A. championships, Crystal Palace, which was being used as a trial for the Games.
Despite a lack of basic speed Barbara has produced a best time of 4 mins. 27 secs. but unfortunately she failed to match this, and was eliminated in her heat with a time of 4 mins. 32 secs.
Two hours later Barbara made an attempt to take the 3,000 metres title, but still tired from the 1,500 metres could only manage third.
The Pilkington's Recreation Ground, St. Helens was the venue of the Northern Men's Senior Athletic Championships. The Wallasey athletes failed to take advantage of the excellent track, none producing best performances.
Success looked on the cards as Dave Lockley ran confidently into the lead at the beginning of the 3,000 metres, stretching the field out with , a fast, first 800 metres. Unfortunately the fast pace and the hot conditions proved too much, Dave dropped back to finish fifth in 9 mins. 29.6 secs.
In the long, jump Alan Cheers unfortunately aggravated an injury, and dropped out after three jumps to concentrate on the triple jump in which he took fifth, jumping 42ft. 6in., well below his best.
Doug Hanna, looked a little stale, after some good performances this season. He failed to get through his heats, recording 2 mins. 3.9 secs. in the 800 metres and 54.1 secs. in the 400 metres.
Today the club will be competing in an inter-club at Sale, and on Sunday are making, the journey to Hull for the second Northern League meeting.
Ends
Source - Wallasey News - Saturday, 27/06/1970 by P.M.W.
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