This venue has been used for this major cross-country event for some years now and organisers reported that once again record entries had been received. The course includes both parkland and woodland areas with good, fast and undulating running surfaces. Spectators were able to view most of the course and enjoyed excellent competition in good weather conditions.
Chiltern Harriers have only occasionally entered teams in this event and with most of the country's top cross-country club's taking part it presented an exciting but nerve-wracking challenge for their talented U13 Boys team. Coach Gary Howells had decided the experience would be good for their development, especially as the season moves towards the period of County, Area and National competition.
Their race was 3 legs of 2000m each and 67 teams started the race, including some incomplete teams. First year U13 Michael Goddard (St Clement Danes School) ran the tough first leg. Up against the two fastest runners on the day he ran strongly to finish 6th in 7 mins 2 secs. He handed over to Dan Barraclough (RGS High Wycombe) who raced very competitively to improve the team position to 3rd in 7 mins 3 secs. Jack Dutton (Chesham High) took over for the third and final leg and was immediately put under pressure by the chasing Aldershot FD runner, who went on to win the race for his club. Jack held himself together and moved ahead of the Coventry Godiva athlete, whose team had led for the first two legs. Unfortunately he was overhauled in the latter part of the race by a fast finishing runner (6th fastest leg) from the East Cheshire Club and he finished 4th overall for the team in a time of 7 mins 18 secs.
The team finished just 5 secs outside the medals and individually Michael Goddard recorded the 12th fastest time of the day, Dan Barraclough 15th fastest and Jack Dutton 35th out of 177 runners.
Most importantly the boys thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The Club has a growing number of talented U11 and U13 boys and girls. If you are interested in coming to training sessions please contact the Club through its website www.chiltern-harriers.org.uk
Gary Howells