Macclesfield Harriers were out in force with a turnout of 50 at the latest Manchester League Cross Country Race which was held at Tatton Park on Saturday 13th January. Conditions were perfect for running and the ground refreshingly firm, given the recent mud fests that have been endured! It was lovely to welcome several newcomers to XC, and of those running today, many consider this the best course of the season.
In the U11s event, a slight misdirection at the end of the race, meant that the youngsters ended up running further than anticipated. Henry crossed the line in 9th position and with George S and George A also working well, they were also the 9th team overall – a brilliant result. Isabella and Olivia completed the course in good times to represent the U11 girls.
In the U13s event, we had two youngsters, Reuben and Lauren. Both put in strong performances with Reuben securing a top 10 finish. It would be great to see more youngsters getting involved in this age group so that team points can also be secured and there are still some events this season to come and try.
The squad of U15s continues to grow with 9 boys competing this time out. In what is always an exciting race to watch, Jake finished as the first Harrier home in 7th place overall. Close behind, and still within the top 30 were George (13th), Jared (15th), Thomas (19th) and Bobby (29th). Also completing the course in good times were Christopher and George and this meant that the two teams finished in 3rd and 11th place overall. Superb!
Representing the U17M today were Mike, Matthew, Cian and Hugh. Mike in particular looked strong from the off and was among the front runners all the way round, finishing in 3rd overall. The others spurred each other on, with all finishing in the top 30 (Matthew 20th, Cian 22nd, Hugh 26th). As a team, they were 4th overall which was very well deserved. Eva and Daisy represented the U17W and both had a good race. Eva finished 15th overall, in a superb time.
Both the senior teams had a great turn out with several newcomers joining the XC fun! 14 ladies took on the course. The first four Harriers to finish were Faye, Alannah, Alice and Katie and this earned them the 8th team overall which is a super achievement. The ‘B’ team (Egg, Sue, Imogen and Rachael) finished in 28th overall. Many other ladies raced well and also finished with speedy times. Well done! 16 Senior Men took on the challenge of the last and longest event of the day with many impressive individual performances. Mark was the first Harrier home finishing in the top 100. Arran, Ciaran, Ben, James and Joseph made up the remainder of the A team finishing 19th overall. Well done chaps!
As ever, Emma’s organisation was brilliant and her cakes are greatly appreciated by all the athletes – Thank you.
Upcoming events:
January 27th Northern XC Championship at Sedgefield on 27th January (entries have now closed) but good luck to those who’ve entered.
February 10th MACCL Match 4 at Kenworthy Woods.
February 28Th National XC Championship SportSoft Race Results – 2024 (race-results.co.uk)
In the words of Dave Larkin “The National is always an incredible event with spine tingling start lines, Braveheart style charges and great support. Well worth entering!” But you will have to be quick because entries close on 26th January!
