Border League 6- Helsby RC-
The penultimate event of this season’s Border League was a mystery to
most Deestriders, who hadn’t done the course before but worryingly, nobody had
heard anything pleasant about it apart from the scenery. Described by Mac McColl as “Everest” and with
rumours that it could be up to 6.7 miles long, no wonder people were hoping the
race would be snowed off. But it
wasn’t. The only consolation was it was
“only” in the region of 6 miles.
Although the last remnants of snow weren’t a problem, the course was
indeed a cold and exceptionally difficult rollercoaster, with many long
ascents, most notably the never-ending hill about two thirds of the way in and
a cruel, winding climb to the finish. There
was never going to be much hope for a PB- this was more a case of hang on and
“take one for the team”.
Teamwork was indeed the key to success, with veteran powerhouse Fred
Aird accompanying protégée Jay Jennions as she held off even her toughest
opponents from Tattenhall and Buckley (despite almost twisting her ankle just
before the end) to win the women’s race in a confident yet well-paced 38.57
(she has never spoken so much during a race).
This hard-fought victory gives Jay a two point lead at the top of the
Border League. Next in was Mike O’Brien
in a brilliant 43.04, with Peter Rooney following him in a tremendous
45.35. After him came Linda Martin in
her long-awaited comeback from injury.
The usually very fast Linda had to play cautious as she is still recovering
however she managed 47.06, a terrific performance considering she has been out
of action for several weeks. Just behind
was Phil Taylor, whose extra training is paying off as despite the course he
was not far off his best in 47.26. Then
came Lorna Royle in a strong 48.06, Mike Norris in an excellent 49.08 and tough
veteran Sid Bailey in a quality 50.50.
The crucial Carol Boynton never gave up, completing the women’s team in
a courageous 55.03.
Thanks to Nick for all the photos and Val for doing the numbers, despite
having to wait in the cold (or the bar!)
The good news is- BL7 is short (approx 4 miles), it’s flat, it’ll be
almost summer (not that that’s saying much)- and it’s ours!