West Cheshire AC hosted the inaugural event for the Border League 2008-09 season. The 9.5 kilometre, gently undulating and multi-terrain route wasn’t the toughest Border League course going (although possibly the muddiest) but the real problem was the heat- forget October, it might as well have been July and the only real respite from the mid day sun came at 7k on a wooded trail (the downside being three cobbled bridges and a patch of slippery mud at the end). However that didn’t stop an excellent turnout from the Deestriders, with the men, benefiting from the new 7-man rule for Division 2, fielding more than a full team. Let’s get promoted this year boys!!
The club has two new standout members, junior Andrew Edwards who returned an amazing 37.40 and his father Vince with a tremendous 40.22. Fred Aird, on his way back from knee surgery, cruised round in a strong 39.00. Defending women’s champion Jay Jennions started out relatively well but injury and lack of road training kicked in halfway as she finished 13th in 41.30. Martin Witty, who has had his own injury problems this year, showed there’s no stopping quality with 42.15. A strong showing from Mike O’Brien with 43.45 was followed by a brilliant 45.57 from Ady Clarke. Phil Taylor and Lorna Royle have both had a tremendous summer with successful marathon training and were rewarded with excellent times of 47.38 and 48.21. Kevin Burns, Leslie Ingram and Sid Bailey battled round together for terrific times of 49.30, 49.32 and 49.41 respectively. New girl Emily Davies delivered a wonderful 51.55 in her club debut, whilst trusty veteran Jane Evans anchored the club with a brave 56.14 in tough conditions.
Next up is Hoylake on 9 November, where a bit of sunshine is going to be the least of our worries (did anyone mention coastal gales?)