Cross Country News
Last Update: 23rd February 2008
Borders League News Last Update:
3rd May 2008
Multi Terrain News Last Update:
30th September 2007
Cross Country
News
National Cross Country
Championships
Alton Towers, Staffordshire, 23/2/2008
What a great day to be a runner!, the National Cross Country Championships for 2008
took place on pasture land just outside Alton Towers and it was a magnificent spectacle. A team of 9 senior, two under
20 and one under 17 men competed for Wallasey A.C., Anne & Bob Brimage also assisted as race officials and where would
we be without the organisers and helpers. The race was well organised and presented a challenging course with good views across
Staffordshire, all in all it made for an exciting event.
First off was Connor McArdle, supported by his family, he finished his race against
strong opposition in 17:42 for 212nd place.
In the under 20 race Steve Lampkin running his first cross country race finished 189th
with Matt Williams was not far behind in 191st.
The recent mild weather meant that the course, although soft underfoot in some places,
was not particularly muddy but it did include a long hill which became steep at the top end, forcing many runners to walk
the last few yards. Wallasey’s men finished 64th out of 99 complete teams in the 6 man event, Tony Barbat, Steve Wilkinson
(cross country debutant), Greg Jones, Phil Cuthbert, Pat Riley and captain Dave Walton were the counters. The men's team
also finished 32nd out of 40 in the 9 man event Stan Williams, Frank Gower and Rolf Westrum making up the next 3 runners. This
result is the men’s highest placing for many years.
Liverpool & District Cross Country
Union Championships
Croxteth Park 10/02/2008
Wallasey A.C. runners had faced several tests over the cross country season and the Liverpool
& District Cross Country Union championships were no exception. Mud and an uneven surface on the horse field tested the
competitors. The first lap of the 5.2 mile course was also run under foggy conditions. 9 runners completed the course, they
were
led home by Tony Barbat (28th), other counters were Greg Jones (43rd), Matt Williams (56th), Colin Palmer (57th) and Mike
Cockburn (77th).
Also representing the club were Dave Walton (82nd), Stan Williams (96th), Frank Egan (108th) and Rolf Westrum (110th) . The team finished seventh
out of the ten that finished complete teams.
Northern Athletic Association Cross
Country Championships
Roundhay Park, Leeds 26/1/2008
Wallasey runners had to contend with the downhill and uphill battles with hill 60 and the
wind at the Northern cross country championships. The senior men improved on their last team finish at
Heaton Park, by 5 places, finishing 36th. The first man home
was Tony Barbat in 210th place. Other counters were Greg
Jones, Phil Cuthbert, Colin Palmer, Pat Riley and Stan Williams. Rolf Westrum also completed the course. Connor McArdle (107th in the
under 17 boys) and Matt Williams (93rd in the under 20 men) faced tough competition in their categories.
Merseyside Athletic Association Cross
Country Championships
Sherdley Park 5/1/2008
Sunshine and a cool wind made for an excellent cross country race at Sherdley Park, the
course was a great mixture of hills and mud and was testing for Wallasey's runners. First out was Connor McArdle who
competed in the under 17 men's race and returned home on the 4.6km course in 25:39 for 17th place. Two ladies braved the
conditions, first home was Vicky Kehoe who ran the 8km course in 42:23 (13th) and picked up a prize for second in her age
category, she was followed home by Rachael Saunders in 44:12 (21st). The senior men finished 5th and the first man home, showing good
cross country form,
was Greg Jones in 50:05 for 28th place. Phil Cuthbert and Tony Barbat were in hot pursuit and finished 30th and 32nd
respectively. Other counters were Keith McLaughlin, John Armstrong and Dave Walton. Youngster Matt Williams finished11th in the under 20 men.
Liverpool & District Cross Country
Union
Arrowe Park 15/12/2007
Wallasey A.C. had 15 runners out for the final round of the Liverpool & District
Cross-Country Union League. Arrowe Park presented plenty of challenges for the runners. On a cold day, the wind made running
more difficult and the frozen and muddy ground did not make for a smooth passage around the 3 lap course. Greg Jones (33rd)
led the team home followed closely by Tony Barbat (36th), Keith McLaughlin (36th), Pat Riley (48th) and Colin Palmer (53rd).
John Armstrong made a fine debut for the club in 59th place. Rachael Saunders was the sole lady representative finishing
109th(9th lady). The team finished second overall place in division 2 behind Southport & Waterloo A.C.
Liverpool & District Cross Country
Union
Sefton Park 24/11/2007 (incorporating UKA Cross Challenge)
Wallasey had a large cross country
team tackling the UKA Cross Challenge at Sefton Park. Connor McArdle was the first runner to hear the starting gun as he set
off in the under 17 boys race. A good performance saw Connor home in 93rd position in 20:26 for the 5.5 km course. Next up
were two brave ladies who decided to mix with some top class company as the races doubled for the European cross country
trials. Vicky Kehoe finished in 113th place and Rachael close behind in 123rd. The men had
twelve runners and finished in 7th place out of 12 teams (L&D). Greg Jones showing good form again led the men home in 190th
place (35th in L&D), second was Phil Cuthbert 213th (45th L&D) and third Tony Barbat 215th (45th L&D). Other team
counters were Richard Saunders, Matt Williams and Arthur Wilson. The team retain second place in division 2.
Liverpool & District Cross Country
Union
Beacon Park 10/11/2007
The first fixture of the 2007-2008 cross country season saw Wallasey face a difficult course at Beacon Park, Skelmersdale.
Although the course was firm there were some muddy sections and gusts of wind. 15 Wallasey runners completed the course and
good packing enabled the club to score its lowest total for many years. First home was Mike Stanley (29th), closely followed
by Phil Cuthbert (31st), Greg Jones (33rd) and Keith McLaughlin (36th). Other counters were Tony Barbat (41st), Keith
Simpson (45th). Vicky Kehoe made her debut on the country and finished 4th lady. The team finished 5th on the day and lie
second in division 2.
National Cross Country
Championships
Herrington Country Park, Sunderland 10/3/2007
The 2007 Championships took place at Herrington Country Park on the outskirts of
Sunderland. A team of 8 senior men and one under 15 made the long trip on Friday night, and after checking in to their hotel
the group headed out for a well earned meal. Despite the valiant attempts by club captain Dave Walton to keep the athletes
away from the bar, a few of them did succumb.
After a good night’s sleep Anne & Bob Brimage set off for their officiating duties
closely followed by Connor & his family as Connor’s race was first of the day at 11.05. The strong winds had dried the park
out and with overcast skies Connor’s race, over 4K got under way. Connor started well and ran strongly throughout the race
to finish a creditable 150th. It was great to see the seniors make their way to the park to join Connor’s family
to give him plenty of vocal support.
The wind that proved troublesome in the early races was now getting even stronger –
approaching gale force just before the seniors started. The pre race favourite, Frank Tickner from Wells City lived up to
his billing & ran out a comfortable winner beating Huw Lobb (Bedford) by 40 seconds. Northern runner-up Gareth Raven (Sale)
was just 4 seconds adrift in 3rd place.
Wallasey’s men again did us proud with Joe Johnson & Pat Riley, in his first National,
having particularly good runs and they were well backed up by the rest of the team. Special mention should be made of Derek
McArdle who competed in his first cross country for the Club. The men’s team achieved our highest placing for many years by
finishing 60th from the 71 teams that finished with a full team.
Other counters were Greg Jones, Dave Walton, Matt Williams and Stan Williams. Pete
McArdle was Wallasey’s other
Thanks to Connor & his family for staying late into the afternoon to support the seniors
throughout their race. It seems that wherever we compete Wallasey provide the best support for their athletes.
Liverpool & District Cross Country
Union Championships
Clarkes Garden 7/2/2006
11 men and 2 ladies represented Wallasey at the Liverpool & District Cross Country
Union Championships. Bright sunshine greeted the runners at Clarkes Garden, the conditions underfoot were wet but not
particularly muddy. Fortunately nobody was hurt when a tree collapsed across the path of the runners, some great work by the
marshalls allowed the race to continue. The race also doubled as the club championships and congratulations are due to Joe
Johnson for the male title and Anne Taylor-Kilbane (5th lady) for the ladies. Tony Barbat, Mark Beckett, Phil Cuthbert, Greg Jones and
Dave Walton completed the scoring six. The club finished 8th from 15 clubs of which 12 closed a team.
Northern Athletic Association Cross
Country Championships
Heaton Park, Manchester 27/1/2007
A energy sapping course at Heaton Park
tested Wallasey's cross country runners. The
recent heavy rain made the course particularly
muddy in patches. The senior men improved on their last team finish 2
years ago at Consett, by one place, finishing 41st. The first man home
was Joe Johnson in 255th place. Other counters were Tony Barbat, Greg
Jones, Mark Beckett, Dave Walton and Arthur Wilson. Richard Saunders,
Matt Williams and Stan
Williams also
completed the course. Rachel Saunders and Nicci Davies
represented the ladies and finished 220th and 234th respectively.
Highest Wallasey place on the day went to Connor McArdle (86th in the
under 15 boys).
Merseyside Athletic Association Cross
Country Championships
Croxteth Park 6/1/2007
A new course at Croxteth Park was
attempted by 18 of Wallasey's runners. The
going was tough as the recent heavy rain made the course particularly
muddy. The course was shortened after the lead runner ran through the
finishing funnel rather than the remainder of the lap, marshalls had to make
a quick decision on what to do and allowed all runners to finish short
of the full distance. The course turned out to be 6 miles instead of 7. The senior men finished 6th and the first man home, showing good
cross country form,
was Joe Johnson in 31st place. He was assisted by Tony Barbat, Greg
Jones, Pat Riley, Arthur Wilson and Dave Walton. Richard Saunders, Stan
Williams, Pete McArdle, Mike Griffiths, Ken Hilton and Dave Godwin also
ran. Rachel Saunders was the sole female
representative and came in a respectable 23rd. Young
athletes Matt Williams (14th in the under 20 men) and
Connor McArdle (23rd in the under 15 boys) ran well.
Liverpool & District Cross Country
Union
Arrowe Park 2/12/2006
Overnight rain made the 3 x 2 mile lap
course at Arrowe Park slippery underfoot and the varied terrain made it
difficult to establish a rhythm. Joe Johnson mastered the conditions and
edged Tony Barbat out for first Wallasey man home. In the process
Joe also managed to move up the finishing positions from an average of
40 to 28th. Other Wallasey counters were Greg Jones, Arthur Wilson, Pat
Riley and cross country debutant Mark Beckett. Good packing saw Wallasey
rise one place to sixth out of 13 teams.
Liverpool & District Cross Country
Union
Sefton Park 25/11/2006 (incorporating UKA
Cross Challenge)
Wallasey had their largest cross country
team for many years out at the UKA Cross Challenge at Sefton Park. In
muddy conditions that made the going much tough on what is normally a
fast course. The mud at the top end of the course was particularly
draining. Connor McArdle was the first Wallasey runner to tackle the
route and finished a creditable 70th against a strong field in the under
15 boys category. Rachael Saunders made a valiant solo run in the ladies
event and enjoyed the race, finishing in 156th place. The men had
thirteen runners and finished in 7th place out of 14 teams. First man
home was Tony Barbat in 195th place (35th in L&D), second was Joe
Johnson 208th (41st). Pat Riley made a return to cross country running
after 25 years and counted in the first six along with Greg Jones,
Arthur Wilson and Richard Saunders.
Liverpool & District Cross Country
Union
Beacon Park 28/10/2006
A tough course at Beacon Park,
Skelmersdale was attacked by 9 Wallasey runners. First home was Tony
Barbat (33rd), the team finished
7th out of 12 teams. Other counters were Joe Johnson (42nd), Phil
Cuthbert (49th), Greg Jones (55th), Chris Burke (57th) and captain Dave
Walton (71st).
Inter-Counties Cross Country
Championships
Woolaton Park, Nottingham 14/3/2006
Congratulations to
Joe McGee and Matt Williams who earned their county vests representing
Merseyside at the inter-counties cross country championships.
Matt finished 185th in the Under 20 mens race and Joe was 44th in the
under 13 boys. Short video of the event is here.
National Cross Country
Championships
Parliament Hill, London 25/2/2006
A good team performance meant Wallasey
senior men's team finished 95th in the national
championships. Phil Cuthbert was first man home
in 606th place. A gutsy contribution from all runners helped the team
that was weakened by injury. Connor McArdle also performed
well in the under 15s race finishing 221st.
Liverpool & District Cross Country
Union Championships
Clarkes Garden 5/2/2006
A much dryer course than the previous
year allowed several Wallasey runners to improve on their times for last
year. First man home was Mike Stanley (24th) and the men's team finished
7th overall.
Merseyside Athletic Association Cross
Country Championships
Wavertree 14/1/2006
A deceptive course at Wavertree made the
going tough for the senior men but Wallasey managed to finish an
excellent 4th, the highest position for over 30 years. First man home
was Mike Stanley. Again the younger
athletes were to the fore with Matt Williams 9th in the under 20 men,
Connor McArdle 20th in the under 15 boys and a great run from Joe McGee
who finished with a medal for third in the under 13 boys.
Cheshire League
Castle Park, Frodsham 6th January 2006
A challenging course at Frodsham proved
tough for all the Wallasey runners. An excellent turnout help the
men's team to finish 9th same as last year. The ladies team of Rachel
Saunders and Nicci Davies finished fifteenth. Star performer
of the day was Joe McGee who came fourth in the under 13 boys. Connor
McArdle also had an excellent run to finish 14th in the under 15 boys
and Ben McGee did well to finish 14th in the under 11 boys.
Liverpool & District Cross Country
Union
Beacon Park, 3/12/2006
A tough course tested the Wallasey
runners, Mike Stanley was the first man home and the team finished an
excellent 5th overall. This lead to a final position in division 1 of
4th, Wallasey's highest for many years.
Liverpool & District Cross Country
Union
Sefton Park, Liverpool 26/11/2006
At the venue for the European cross
country trials Wallasey entered 11 male runners. Jamie Pullin was first
man home and the team finished 7th overall.
Liverpool & District Cross Country
Union
Arrowe Park, Birkenhead 23/10/2006
On an unseasonably warm day Wallasey had
an excellent turnout with 10 runners representing the club. The team had
its highest position for many years finishing 4th with a points haul of
264 which was over 100 less than last year's average. Jamie Pullin was
first man home in 31st place with Phil Cuthbert 2nd in 39th.
National Cross Country
Championships
Cofton Park, Birmingham 19/2/2005
A good team performance meant Wallasey
senior men's team finished a creditable 92nd in the national
championships. On a cold and windy day the men battled valiantly to
improve on last year's 114th placing. Phil Cuthbert was first man home
in 592nd place. A gutsy contribution from all runners helped the team
that was weakened by illness and injury. Matt Williams also performed
well in the under 17s race finishing 222nd.
North of England Cross Country
Championships
Consett 29/1/2005
Excellent performances from the two
younger athletes saw Joe McGee and Connor McArdle finish 50th and 62nd
respectively. A glorious winter's day inspired Wallasey to 42nd place in
the senior men's race.
Merseyside Athletic Association Cross
Country Championships
Arrowe Park 15/1/2005
A boggy course at Arrowe Park made the
going tough but Wallasey managed to finish 7th. Again the younger
athletes shone with Connor McArdle finishing tenth in the U13 boys race.
Cheshire Cross Country League
Castle Park, Frodsham 28/12/2004
A tough course at Frodsham proved
challenging to all the Wallasey runners. An excellent turnout help the
men's team to finish 9th, 3 places up on last year. The ladies finished
tenth despite being a runner short. The under 13 boys finished 7th with
good performances from Mike Saunders and Connor McArdle, star performer
of the day was Joe McGee who came fifth overall.
Liverpool & District Cross Country
Union
Sefton Park 4/12/2004
The third and final week moved to Sefton
Park and was incorporated into the Reebok Cross Challenge. A fast course
and a competitive field helped Wallasey to some good performances. A
strong West Cheshire side put paid to any hopes of finishing top of the
second division but second place was the best result for many years and
meant promotion for the team.
Beacon Park 13/11/2004
Tough competition and a testing course
proved tough for Wallasey's runners in the second round of the Liverpool
& District Cross Country Union. The venue at Beacon Park was a tough 5.2
miles with testing uphill and downhill stages. The team finished 8th
overall and consolidated second place in division two, a remarkable
improvement on last year.
Stadt Moers 30/10/2004
A good start to the cross country season
at Stadt Moers
in the Liverpool and District Union saw Wallasey emerge in 5th place.
The competition was tough and a difficult course with many inclines and
turns tested the athletes over the 6.5 mile distance. The team finished
higher than in any of the races of the previous season.
Borders League
News
Shotton 30/04/2008
Wallasey Athletic Club's runners were like the apple blossom trees, that is in full bloom, as
they stormed win the ladies and men's division 2 titles in the final Borders League fixture at Shotton. Added to the 2
team prizes, 6 runners also picked up individual prizes, John Cottrell 1st in the male over 60, Pete Lonsdale 2nd in the
male over 65, Greg Jones 8th in the senior men, Tony Barbat 4th in the male over 45, Vicky Kehoe second in the female over
35 and Nicci Davies 3rd in the female over 50. The fast flat 4 mile course was completed first by Jamie Pullin in an
excellent time of 22:36 (28th), he was followed home by Greg Jones in 22:47 (33rd), Tony Barbat 23:03 (37th), Phil Cuthbert
23:19 (45th), Connor McArdle 23:24 (48th) and Keith Simpson 23:31 (51st). Other counters were Phil Bird, Steve Lampkin, Bob
Brimage and Colin Palmer. The first lady home was Claire Walton in an impressive 3rd place (25:01), Vicky Kehoe recorded 21st with Ann Taylor-Kilbane
third counter in 24th. The ladies team
finished with 48 points and won their division by over 100 points and the men scored 528 points and won their division by
over 1,000 points. Club
chairman Bob Brimage said "Absolutely brilliant. Well done to everyone concerned, particularly Dave & Louise for getting such strong and enthusiastic teams out for what is a long season."
Men's captain Dave Walton added "An outstanding Borders League season for Wallasey Athletic Club. Both the men and women won their respective divisions by a considerable margin. The men having won 6 of the 7 races and 2nd in the other and the women winning 4 out of the 7. A prodigious achievement! 34 different members contributed to the men's team and 15 women. Well done everyone and sincere thanks to one and all".
Frodsham 06/04/2008
Snow covered the fields around Frodsham for the penultimate race of the Borders League
series. Fortunately the roads were clear and Helsby Running Club had set out a challenging course setting off from the
Forest Hills Hotel. Several hills tested the Wallasey runners and the men's and ladies teams again performed excellently.
First home for the club in 23rd place was Tony Barbat and hot on his heels running his first 'Borders' since returning from
Australia was Jamie Pullin (24th). Connor McArdle continued his improvement by moving up to 29th place. Greg Jones, Keith
Simpson, Mark Beckett, Colin Palmer, Bob Brimage, Colin Benson and Steve Lampkin were the other counters as Wallasey's top
ten finished inside the first 80 for their best performance of the season (443 points). The ladies were led home by Tricia
Jones (13th). Ann Taylor-Kilbane made a welcome return to record 21st with Vicky Kehoe third counter (30th). The ladies team
finished with 64 points. Both teams now hold strong leads at the top of their divisions. John Cottrell faces a tough fight
to win the over
60 category, Pete Lonsdale lies second in the over 65 category as does Trica Jones in the over 45 ladies. Men's club
captain Dave Walton enthused "Absolutely brilliant set of results. I believe both the women and men are now in an
unassailable position at the top of each division. On Sunday’s race only two teams out of the fourteen competing beat
Wallasey!! Fantastic Let’s ensure we get a strong team out for the final race and then relax and have a very enjoyable
presentation evening."
Mold 09/03/2008
Wallasey Athletic Club's men's and ladies teams remained firmly at the top of their
divisions after round 5 of the borders league. Twenty one men and eight women turned out for the club at the annual Mold
race which is used by both Wrexham Tri and Wrexham Athletic Club. The former were the hosts on Sunday and the event took
place in ideal running conditions. On a cool day with the sun shining and little wind, the course started and finished in
Mold Industrial Estate and wound around the Welsh hills surrounding the village of Nercwys. The 5 mile course was
challenging for the runners and consisted of many uphill and downhill sections. Tony Barbat just pipped Greg Jones for the
honour of first Wallasey man home. Connor McArdle was next and is improving in leaps and bounds, starting the Borders season
in 92nd he has gradually improved every race to finish in 36th place on Sunday, a commendable effort. Steve Wilkinson and
Keith McLaughlin were next giving the men 5 runners in the top 50. Hot on theirs heels were the other counters Keith
Simpson, Colin Palmer, Bob Brimage, Matt Williams and Steve Lampkin. The men's team finished with 532 points to win the
division on the day and lead division 2 by 455 points. First home representing the ladies was Tricia Jones (13th lady), she
was followed by Vicky Kehoe (22nd) and the improving Nicky Rimmer (23rd). The ladies also finished first in their division
(58 points) and lead division 2 by 39 points. The only individual still leading their category is John Cottrell in the over
60 category. Club chairman Bob Brimage said "Some great performances which are reflected in the team scores and
individual standings. Well done to Borders first timers, Meg Hale and Elwyn Jones."
Pensarn (Abergele) 03/02/2008
Wallasey A.C. returned to Pensarn for a Borders League fixture after a gap of three years.
The forecast of snow and high winds failed to materialise and the conditions turned out to be pleasant with little wind. The
out and back course featured a run along the promenade onto a cycle track and a loop around a caravan park and then returned
along the promenade. The men had 20 representatives and Tony Barbat was first home in 25th place, Greg Jones was close up next
in 29th. An excellent run from Connor McArdle in his first Borders League season brought him home in 43rd place. Keith
Simpson was next in 61st. The men's team retained their lead at the top of division 2 despite finishing second but must be
wary of Prestatyn's challenge.
The ladies
maintained their top spot in division 2 after working hard for 3rd place on the day, but likewise should beware of the
threat from Eyrie's ladies. Vicky Kehoe was again consistent, coming (23rd), with Nicci Davies (46th) and Anne Brimage
(48th) also counting. John Cottrell and Tricia Jones lead their individual age categories after 4 races.
Club chairman Bob
Brimage who also had a good run after returning from injury said "Once again, great turnout & performances from
Wallasey. Well done to all concerned."
Tattenhall 09/12/2007
Three climbs and some steep descents were features of the 3rd Borders League fixture at
Tattenhall. Fortunately the rain held off for the race around this rural part of Cheshire. This time around it was the men's
turn to grab the divisional top spot. The men mustered 22 runners and Greg Jones was first home in 20th place, with Tony
Barbat next (21st) and Keith McLaughlin not far behind in 32nd. The men's team retained their lead at the top of division 2.
The ladies
excelled with Tricia Jones finishing 8th lady overall, other counters were Vicky Kehoe (21st) and Rachael Saunders
43rd. The ladies also lead the second division.
Birkenhead Park 18/11/2007
On an interesting course designed by Bob Brimage, Wallasey A.C. had a successful morning of running. On a
dull day, the drop in temperature and the increase in wind could not dampen the enthusiasm of the club's runners. The ladies
shone with Claire Walton finishing 2nd lady overall, she was backed up by Tricia Jones (9th) and Vicky Kehoe (19th) giving
the ladies a total of 30 points and an outright lead in division 2. 12 other ladies runners also competed for Wallasey the
highest number of lady entrants in Wallasey's border league history. The men had 22 representatives and Greg Jones led them
home in 24th place, with Keith McLaughlin not far behind in 34th. The men's team also top division 2. Thanks also go to all
the helpers on the day who ensured the race was a success.
Prestatyn 14/10/2007
32 Wallasey runners lined up for the first Borders League fixture of the 2007-2008 season. On a
warm Sunday morning in Prestatyn our athletes set off on the one lap course along the promenade and round the golf course. The men were
looking to make a good start after relegation last season. Good packing enabled Wallasey to post a
score of 543 beating their best score from last year (556). The
ladies amassed a total of 73 points and also bettered their best score from the previous season (77). Mike Stanley led the
men home in 13th place, Tricia Jones (10th) was first lady. Pete Lonsdale and Tricia Jones lead their age categories.
An excellent start to the season saw the men lead division 2 and the ladies lie second on division 2.
Wrexham 4/5/2007
The Borders League series drew to a close for 2006-2007 on a warm evening in Wrexham. A fast flat
course was tackled by 30 Wallasey runners with the ladies having their largest contingent in the club's Borders League short
history. The ladies were vying for a promotion spot and valiantly won the division two team race on the night but did not
gain sufficient points to overhaul Deestriders, thus finishing in third position. The men battled bravely to
come 5th but despite only finishing in the bottom two twice over the 7 race series somehow managed to find themselves
bottom of the division and were therefore relegated to the second division. Front runners for the club were Mike Stanley and
Joe Johnson for the men and Anne Taylor-Kilbane and Tricia Jones for the ladies. Shields were awarded for individual
performances over the series to John Cottrell 2nd in the over 60 male category, Tony Barbat 5th in the over 45 male
category, Matt Williams 3rd in the under 20 men, Pete Lonsdale 2nd in the over 65 male, Anne Taylor-Kilbane 4th over 40
ladies and Anne Brimage 3rd in the over 50 ladies category.
Mens' captain Dave Walton added "Despite being relegated from division one there has been many positives from the Borders league
season. The number of athletes representing Wallasey AC at each race has varied between 18 in the last race and
23 in race 4 at Christleton. The total number of different athletes donning the famous scarlet and blue vest during
the season is a remarkable 37, a prodigious achievement for a club of our size. Individual awards in their respective
age categories go to Pete Lonsdale, John Cottrell, Tony Barbat and Matt Williams. Well done to them and all that
have represented Wallasey A.C. throughout the season. Thanks to everyone for excellent support and I look forward to
next years promotion battle".
Ladies captain Louise Merivale said "Whilst
disappointed to have narrowly missed out on promotion to the 1st division, a great deal of credit has to go to all the
ladies who took part in this season's Borders League series. The ladies showed great commitment and willingness to support
their club throughout the season with some outstanding running. Although the Borders League is about the team and not
individuals special credit has to go to Anne Taylor-Kilbane who in all her races finished inside the top 25 ladies and
thoroughly deserved her overall award and 4th in age category. Great to see Tricia Jones back to racing ways at the back end
of the season with 2 great performances. Julie Barbat and Anne Brimage
with the best attendance of 5 out of 7 races. Well done to Anne Brimage who collected 2 individual awards, my sincere thanks
goes to all the ladies for taking part with such energy and enthusiasm and if we work hard over the whole of next season we
will hopefully secure our place in the top flight of Borders league running."
Northop 15/4/2007
The penultimate race in the Borders League series for 2006-2007 was held at Northop. Although the
route was shorter than the club was originally informed the course and the warm weather challenged Wallasey's runners. Joe Johnson
showing excellent form prior to his London Marathon run was first man home, Anne Talylor-Kilbane once again led the ladies
home. Club captain Dave Walton said "Well done to all who ran on Sunday. It was
indeed a testing course made even more difficult by the soaring temperatures. Wallasey were again well represented with 20
men and 5 women running and they all produced a great performance. The men finished a creditable 5th place on the day but
unfortunately for us both Eryri Harriers and Prestatyn had exceptional scores leaving us in a relegation position with only one race
remaining. The ladies had a terrific result with first place on the day and consolidating 3rd place overall."
Mold 18/3/2007
As a special treat for Mother's Day the ladies were allowed to run up and down some of the gentle
slopes around Mold! Again a sunny, crisp day greeted Wallasey's 26 runners competing in the 5th race in the Borders League.
21
men and 5 ladies completed the course for Wallasey A.C., Steve Wikinson outsprinted Joe Johnson at the line to be first man
home in 30th place in 29:38 for the 5 mile course. The men's team finished 4th in division one
and made up ground on other relegation battlers Prestatyn and Eryri, this now gives the men's team an opportunity to avoid
relegation. Club captain Dave Walton said "Excellent performance. I believe it gives us a fighting chance of staying in the
top division". The ladies finished 4th on the day and retained 3rd
place in division 2 but slipped further behind Deestriders. First lady home was
Anne Taylor-Kilbane, the other counters being Nicci Davies and Louise Merivale. Once again Gill and Les
Pullin laid on some excellent refreshments. Pat Riley, Steve Wilkinson, Mark Beckett, Paul Richardson, Mike Griffiths, Anne
Taylor-Kilbane, Derek McArdle and Joe Johnson all achieved their highest ever Borders League finish even more remarkable
considering the increased numbers participating this year.
Christleton 4/2/2007
On a sunny, crisp day Wallasey had 28 runners participating in race 4 of the Borders league. A new
and mildly undulating course at Christleton weaved through the Cheshire countryside with a variety of surfaces. The runners
had to traverse road, mud and even cobblestones over three narrow bridges. 18
men and 5 ladies completed the course for Wallasey A.C., Tony Barbat was first man to complete the 9.5 kilometre course in
32nd place in 34:55, the men's team finished 5th in division one
and although this was an improvement it was not enough to lift them out of the bottom two as the host club West Cheshire
turned out a strong team on their home soil. The ladies had more success finishing second on the day and moved up to 3rd
place in division 2 only 13 points behind second placed team. First lady home was
Anne Taylor-Kilbane, the other counters being Rachael Saunders and Gemma Tite. Highlight of the day goes to Gill and Les
Pullin for some excellent refreshments. John Cottrell and Pete Lonsdale lie second in their age categories.
Prestatyn 10/12/2006
A strong crosswind buffeted the runners at the
third borders fixture of the season along the promenade at Prestatyn. 20
men and 4 ladies completed the course for Wallasey A.C., Mike Stanley
was welcomed back after a long period out with injury and a fine run saw
him finish in 15th place. First man to complete the 5.1 mile course was
Tony Barbat in 14th place, the men's team finished 6th in division one
and are still haunted by the threat of relegation. First lady home was
Anne Taylor-Kilbane, the other counters being Rachael Saunders and Julie
Barbat. The ladies finished in 4th place in division 2.
Caernarfon 12/11/2006
Wallasey runners travelled to Caernarfon for
the second Borders League fixture with high hopes of a good score.
Usually not many travel to this 10K race however, 261 runners completed
the course and absence and injury affected the men's score. First man
home was Tony Barbat (23rd) and he was followed by Keith McLaughlin who
attained his highest position to date in 38th. 19 male runners scored
for Wallasey and despite some brave efforts from athletes carrying
injuries the team score left Wallasey in the relegation places. The
ladies team was well represented with 8 runners taking part. First lady
home was Anne Taylor-Kilbane (21st). Nicci Davies (43rd) and Sue
Barraclough (53rd) completed the ladies scorers. There were also
personal bests for Julie Barbat and Gemma Tite.
Capenhurst 8/10/2006
The first fixture of the new season took place on a
warm Sunday morning in Capenhurst. A flat 2 lap course of 5.3 miles was
packed
with Wallasey runners. The men were making there first division one
appearance and finished an excellent 4th place despite missing some of
the faster runners. Good packing enabled Wallasey to maintain a low
score. The
ladies finished fourth in division 2. First man home was Tony Barbat (22nd) with
Joe Johnson showing good form next (45th). Nicci Davies (39th) was first lady counter.
Wrexham 5/05/2006
The last fixture of the season took place on a
warm Friday evening in Wrexham. The flat four mile course was graced
with a large field including 24 Wallasey runners. The men failed to win
their sixth consecutive race however the lead built up over the previous
fixtures was enough to ensure that they won the second division. The
ladies finished third on the day and ended the season in the same
position in division 2. First
man home was Jamie Pullin (18th) with Greg Jones next (67th). Tricia Jones (12th) and
Anne Taylor-Kilbane (29th) were the first ladies counters. On the
individual front, congratulations go to Pete Lonsdale winner of the over
65 men's category and Tricia Jones winner of the over 45 ladies.
Plaudits also for medal winners Bob Brimage 4th in the over 50 male
category, Matt Williams 3rd in the under 20 men and Jamie Pullin 6th in
the senior men category.
Hoylake 9/04/2006
Wirral hosted the fixture along the promenade
from Hoylake to Leasowe. A large field had to battle against the wind on
the outward journey. Wallasey had 24 representatives for the penultimate
borders league fixture of the season. Although the men did not reach the
heights of previous races it was still enough to win them 1st place in
division 2 on the day and strengthened their lead at the top of that
division.
In another close contest, the ladies finished third on the day and still stand third in division 2. First
man home was Mike Stanley (15th) with Jamie Pullin (19th). Tricia Jones (11th) and
Anne Taylor-Kilbane (29th) were the first ladies counters. On the
individual front, Pete Lonsdale has a good lead in the over
65 mens category and Tricia Jones looks favourite to take the over 45 ladies.
Wallasey 26/03/2006
Wallasey hosted the fixture along the promenade at Seacombe.
The home club entered 23 runners on the day and another steady performance allowed them the men to maintain
their position at the top of division 2.
In a close contest, the ladies finished third on the day and still stand third in division 2. First
man home was Mike Stanley (8th) with Jamie Pullin (15th). Tricia Jones (10th) and Nicci Davis
(29th) were the first ladies counters. On the individual front, Pete Lonsdale leads the over
65 mens category and Tricia Jones the over 45 ladies.
Mold 29/01/2006
On a cold and sunny day Mold was the venue for
Wrexham Tri's Border League fixture. Wallasey
entered 23 runners in the first fixture of 2006. An excellent
performance from the men's teams saw them both top
their division. They finished on 489 points, yet again their lowest ever,
further strengthening their lead over Tattenhall at the top of the second division.
The ladies team finished third on the day and also stand third in division 2. First
man home was Mike Stanley (7th) with Jamie Pullin (15th) and Tony Barbat
(16th). Anne Taylor-Kilbane (27th), Tricia Jones (30th) and Nicci Davis
(38th) were the ladies counters.
Shotton 23/10/2005
The first fixture of the 2005-2006 Borders
League season brought out 26 Wallasey runners in a large field of 299.
This number of runners was up 10 on the same race 2 years ago. The men's
team top division 2 with 678 points a much improved result on the first
race last year which ultimately probably cost them promotion and the
second division title. The ladies are in fourth with 109 points. First
man home was Jamie Pullin in an excellent position of 19th. First lady
was Tricia Jones also an excellent place of 15th.
Wrexham 22/4/2005
Final fixture of the season brought out a large
contingent of Wallasey runners, despite their valiant efforts, Wallasey
were unable to improve on second place in both the men's and ladies
second division. Despite a significant improvement on last year Wallasey
finished in the same position. The points gap however was reduced from
2041 to 174 for men and 571 to 320 for ladies, a remarkable achievement.
Individual performances were also rewarded with no less than four
winners. Matt Williams won the under 20 male, Mike Stanley over 40 male,
John Cottrell over 50 male and Pete Lonsdale over 60 male.
Mold 3/4/2005
The penultimate round of the borders league saw
the mens team win the second division race again to consolidate their
2nd position in division 2, the ladies also performed well also look
unassailable in second place in division 2. Mike Stanley was Wallasey first male
home and currently leads the over 40 vets category. Other category
leaders include Matt Williams under 20, John Cottrell over 50s, and Pete
Lonsdale over 60s.
Christleton 27/2/2005
The fifth race saw further improvements for
Wallasey, with 23 runners the men won the second division race and the
ladies came second in division two. Mike Stanley was Wallasey first male
home, a fine debut run by James Pullen saw him finish 32nd. The men once
again lowered their best points haul to 520 and now lie second in
division two. The ladies also had their best performance of the season
with Nicci Davies first lady home and good runs from Louise Merrivale
and Anne Brimage.
Abergele 6/2/2005
The fourth race in the series was run over
another delightful course on the front at Abergele. Mike Stanley was again Wallasey's
best placed runner with a solid run in which he finished third. He
was first over 40 home, Matt Williams continued his improvement and was
first under 20, John Cottrell was first over 60. The
men's team finished with their lowest ever points haul of 572 points
which was best in the second division and
moved up a place to third with an opportunity to mount a challenge for
the 2nd Division title. The ladies consolidated their
2nd position in division 2 with a points total of 128, Nicci Davies yet
again led the ladies home.
Caernarfon 28/11/2004
The third race in the series was run over
a delightful course around Caernarfon. Mike Stanley was again Wallasey's
best placed runner with a creditable third. The team finished with 808
points but slipped to fourth in division 2 after some good performance
by other teams notably the hosts Eryri. The ladies consolidated their
2nd position in division 2 with a points total of 128, Nicci Davies once
again first Wallasey lady home.
Capenhurst 14/11/2004
The second race at Capenhurst organised
by Ellesmere Port Running Club was won by Wallasey's own Mike Stanley.
An excellent finish from Mike allowed him to narrowly beat Buckley's Clive West. The men's team produced their
best performance for a number of years and finished with 710 points.
This moved them up one place to third in division two. The ladies had a
good turnout and maintained their second place in division two despite
finishing third overall.
Prestatyn 24/10/2004
The first race at Prestatyn saw some good
performances. Notable efforts were seen from Dave Godwin and Dave
Walton, both returning from injury. Andy Okell and Tony Barbat set
personal bests and John Rafferty had his best 10k time for 3 years. The
overall result was marred by the loss of several top runners. The ladies
team of Nicci Davies, Anne Brimage and Rachel Saunders finished a
creditable second in division two.
Multi Terrain
News
2007
The final race of the multi terrain series took place at Arrowe Park and 21 Wallasey runners
completed the course. The men's 'A' team retained the 3rd place they won last year and Greg Jones won second in the under 30
age category tying with the same points as the winner but losing out after finishing behind him in the final race. Mike
Stanley was first man home and was Wallasey's highest placed male (14th) and Vicky Kehoe was first lady completing a clean
sweep for the series and finished the highest overall lady (21st).
Race 3 of the series brought the Wallasey runners to the tricky course in Rivacre. Greg Jones
continued his good form and led the men home and Vicky Kehoe the ladies. Some runners with chances of top three places in
the individual events are Lisa Riley (2nd U30 women), Greg Jones (4th under 30 men) and Vicky Kehoe (4th U40 women) The
men's team finished 5th and lie 4th overall, whilst the ladies finished tenth and occupy the same slot overall.
Wallasey were hosts for the second multi-terrain race of the series. Mike Stanley was again
first Wallasey man home in 9th position and Vicky Kehoe lead the ladies home again. In the team race the men eased to 5th
whilst the ladies managed 10th place.
Wallasey A.C. had 24 runners contesting the first
Wirral Multi Terrain race of the new season. Several runners made their debuts for the club on a difficult two lap circuit
over Thurstaston Common. Mike Stanley was first Wallasey man home and the ladies were lead by newcomer Vicky Kehoe.
The mens first team finished in third place.
The ladies first team finished in 7th place.
2006
Wallasey A.C. had 25 runners at the first
multi terrain race. Excellent debuts from Steve Wilkinson and Paul
Richardson saw them come home as Wallasey's first and third finishers.
The men's first team secured fourth place.
The ladies first team finished in 14th place. Ann Taylor-Kilbane was first
Wallasey lady to cross the line.
The second week saw Wallasey men's team
move up to 3rd place and the ladies ease to 16th. Mike Stanley was first
man and Sue Jones was first lady. Connor McArdle ran well both weeks to
secure 5th place in the under 15 boys race.
2005
Wallasey were out in force at the first
multi terrain race with no fewer than 28 runners completing the race. An
excellent run from the men's first team brought them in in second place.
The ladies first team finished in 6th place. Mike Stanley was first male
home and Ann Taylor-Kilbane was first lady.
The second week saw Wallasey men's team
slip to 4th place and the ladies to 7th. Matt Williams was first man and
Ann Taylor-Kilbane again was first lady.
In week 3 Wallasey hosted the race and
entered 17 runners. The men's team slipped to sixth and the ladies to
12th. First man home was Jamie Pullin and first lady was Ann Taylor-Kilbane.
Greg Jones leads the under 30 class for the men and Joe McGee is second
boy and Matt Williams second under 20 male.
In week 4 for Wallasey entered 19 runners
in the last race at Arrowe Park. Jamie Pullin was the first Wallasey
runner home and Ann
Taylor-Kilbane first for the ladies. The overall results found Wallasey male
first team in fourth spot and the ladies in seventh. Notable individual
performances were Joe McArdle second young boy and Jamie Pullin second
under 30 male.
2004
Wallasey enjoyed a successful first week
in the multi terrain league with the men improving from 5th to 4th (1st
team), 16th to 13th (2nd team) and 26th to 24th (3rd team), the women
put two teams in who finished 6th and 11th.
Further improvements were managed in
the second week despite the absence of some of the top male runners,
the men improved on last year's result from 8th to 6th (1st team), 19th
to 13th (2nd team) and the 3rd team fiome great performances which are
reflected in the team scores and individual standings. Well done to Borders first timers, Meg Hale andS (1st team), 19th to 8th (2nd
team) and the 3rd team finished 19th. The women improved from 14th to
6 consolidated Wallasey's position. The mnd the second team
finished 17th.
This resulted in the following overall
improvements, Men from 9th to 4th (1st team), 19th to 11th (2nd team)
and the 36th to 25th (3rd team). Ladies 12th to 5th (1st team) and
15th for the 2nd team.
Best individual performances go to Bob
Brimage (over 50's winner) and Andy Okell (3rd in the under 30's)