Cross-country and weight-lifting feats

Last week Wallasey Athletic Club held its annual winter championships at its Leasowe Road headquarters.

On Wednesday evening, Jan. 19, the junior weightlifting championships resulted in a victory for young Ron Brownbill, who lifted a total of 5021/2 lbs (including a handicap of 1321/2 lbs) to defeat Derek Hobbs 4471/2 lbs (handicap 371/2). On Friday evening Jan. 21, the senior championship was won by club weight lifting captain, Jack McCulloch, 6921/2 lbs (handicap 921/2 lbs), with Norman Sadler second 655 lbs (scratch). In each class the handicap was based on the heaviest competitor, who was scratch man.

Last Saturday afternoon the cross-country championships were run at Leasowe. In the 9 miles senior race, John Arkless (captain), established a commanding lead after 2 miles and won easily in 54 mins. 30 secs. Arnold Dinsdale in his first season with the club, ran a well judged race to finish second in 55.37 with Eric Foster third in 56.47.

The junior race over 7 miles resulted in some fast times. The first two men home, Bob Johnston 41.35, and Denis Kelly 42.09 both broke the course record. Tony Simpson was 3rd in 44.21. These juniors will form the nucleus of a strong team for the local championships. The youth race over 3 miles was won by the youths' captain John Hawksley, in 19.58 after the running had been made by the second man home Peter Mason, 20.18. Brian Smith was third in 21.38.

This week’s activities were completed by an excellent party at Manor Road Memorial Hall last Saturday evening when members and friends enjoyed entertainment admirably planned and executed by Master of Ceremonies – Tony Dickinson.

This Saturday the Liverpool & District Cross-Country Championships are being held at West Derby. Wallasey Athletic Club teams meet 1-30 p.m. at the Pier Head. Take 12 tram to West Derby terminus or 74 bus to Caton Road.

Ends

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