The Cross-Country season in our local North Midlands league began with an unusually sunny race at Markeaton Park, Derby, a stark change from the typical mud and rain! We headed to the course in the minibus with a great early turn out of 15 people, including 3 new comers to the Cross-Country team. The race around the grassy scenic park was mostly flat apart from two large climbs per lap.
After a team warmup, the Women’s team headed to the start line to begin their 6.5km race. After a tiring 2 laps everybody put in a strong finish. Hannah Willis who finished 27th despite an ankle injury the week before, and Amy Coulson in her first race for UOLRAC finishing in 90th were some of the highlights of the race in a strong field of around 150 women. The Men’s team had 3 laps, totalling 10km. Everyone put in full effort with the pre-season training paying off. Stephen Headley after a great race finished in 16th position, and the rest of the team showing an excellent performance against a competitive field of over 200 athletes. Max Soviche and Peter Parkinson put in stellar performances in their first cross country league race for the University of Leicester.
The first race was an outstanding success for both teams boding well for the rest of the season. A great turnout, seconded by a great performance from everybody!
XC Captain - Andrew Holland
