The course at Leasowe last Saturday was still very muddy when Wallasey A.C. held their annual Novice Championship over 4½ miles of heavy country. There were two good water splashes and plenty of mud so that all the competitors enjoyed a good race with real cross-country conditions.
The race was won by Wallasey Grammar School's captain Ian McIvor who is running well this year. This is probably because he has recognised the need to train more often than he did last year. Mac's time was 30 mins. 10 secs.
In second place was Brian Hamilton, another greatly improved runner, who is training harder this year; third place was shared by John Ryan and Les Williams, two runners who should be making their presence felt in the club this year.
The first two men home were awarded club medals and Mac will hold the Wright Challenge Cup for the year.
It is pleasing to note that all club members now seem to be training far harder and far more often than last year; this is, perhaps, because of the opportunities to win medals at many of the championships, and in consequence competition to be in the club's 'counters' is very keen.
Four youngsters, who, I expect, will do extremely well this year are Ron Barlow, Tony Townsend, Roy Shaw and John Lynch. All have the necessary talent and training to bring them to the front this season.
This week the club holds the annual Christmas Handicap when members set off at timed intervals to run round a course along Leasowe Road and the shore; at the end all competitors who finish are awarded prizes ranging from Christmas cakes to shaving sticks. This race is always one of the most popular events of the season and is always full of amusing incidents.
The boys' race will start at 3 p.m. prompt and youths, juniors and seniors will set off together at 3-15 p.m.
Anyone interested in joining the club should contact either Mr. R. Hubbard, 44, Tollemache Street, Wallasey or Mr. R. Woolley, 8, Bradman Road, Moreton.
Ends
Source - Wallasey News - Saturday, 18/12/1954 by SPIKE
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