It was a far cry from the free flowing movements to which we became accustomed almost two years ago, but it was sheer determination, patience and belief that he could make a comeback that was behind Pete Jones' appearance back in track competition.
For a full 12 months he had to sit back and watch others, even Sebastian Coe against whom he has competed, train and compete.
Although almost unheard of now, he had contracted TB.
This was his first race for two years and, fittingly, it was the first race on the programme of last weekend's meeting at Kirkby Stadium. It did not really matter what the time was, but to be back under two minutes as early as February and to finish only sixth of the 14 finishers brought back the smiles of delight to his face.
Bob Brimage seems to have 'found his feet' again on track and country and his race performances have done little to dampen his enthusiasm. Although only finishing seventh in his 3,000m event he left in his wake 19 others and recorded a time the likes of which he has not seen for a year or two.
David Neil and Lynne Kennedy both looked determined enough but their racing mind and edge need to be nursed back if times are to improve; a task far from beyond the young but experienced heads of both. Neil Moore will bear witness to the need for race practice on the track. His first taste of track competition included some difficulties which more experience will make easier.
Electing to compete in the 400m rather than the customary 100m, Neil Henfrey did nothing to disgrace himself in this the most gruelling of the track events. Virtually a sprint from start to finish, this event finds aches in even the fittest of athletes.
With only a couple of cross-country events left now, including 'the big one', the National Championships with something like 1,500 runners in the senior race alone, this track event marks the first of a series being held in this 'closed' season.
Wallasey Athletic Club is open to all interested in athletics, track, field, cross-country and road. Only three things matter should you wish to join:
You must be over 11 years of age, you must be willing to work hard and often and you must be prepared to be called a jogger rather than a runner or athlete.
RESULTS
Senior men 800: Peter Jones, 6th, 1 min 59.5 secs.
Junior men 800: Neil Moore, 7th, 2 min 31.0 secs.
Boys 800m: David Neil, 13th, 2 min 35.8 secs.
Inter ladies 800m: Lynne Kennedy, 8th, 2 min 33.0 secs.
Senior men 3000m: Bob Brimage, 7th, 9 min 01.0 secs.
Junior men 3000m: Neil Moore, 10th, 11 min 00.2 secs.
Senior men 400m: Pete Jones, 4th, 53.9 secs.
Boys 400m: Neil Henfrey, 3rd, 60.8 secs.
Ends
Source - Wallasey News - Saturday, 06/03/1982 by Doug Hanna
Ref 1949