THERE was also a big turn-out for Westbury Harriers’ senior women with a squad of 20 lining up for the first true cross country race and conditions of the winter.
“Wow! What a day,” said team manager Tamsin Elson Chick.
Early pacetters: Robyn Esther Ellis is pictured far right of the leading Westbury women just after the start with Bristol & West super vet Dave Bedwell towing in the background. Photo courtesy of Robert Gale (Parc Bryn Back RC).
“One that won’t be forgotten in a hurry. After the balmy conditions of the first two Gwents – we were thrown in to some ‘proper’ cross country conditions.
“Always fun to be on a new course, especially with loads of mud, slanting rain and some windy conditions thrown in!
A huge thank you to all ladies for turning out and showing they are up for a challenge. Despite the conditions, we had some fantastic performances. With some commenting how much they enjoyed it!”
Leading scorer was Robyn Esther Ellis, who enjoyed her best run of the new campaign in 14th. She was well supported by Katie Hughes in 18th, Kirstie Hamilton-James 20th, Vicky Waters 37th and Jayne Pemble 39th as the club’s leading five all made the top 40.
Other Harriers who survived the ordeal included Elson Chick 59th, Maria Eriksson Hobbs 96th, Sarah Andrews 112th, Jennifer Stevenson 130th, Clare Eskell 135th, Abi Hall 145th, Helen Sawyer 152nd, Shirley Hume 176th, Sandra Sforza 184th, Judy Knights 200th, Ellinor Bourdeaux 214th, Marilyn Palmer 225th, Carol Fee 229th, Mel Lowe 251st, Nicola Derrick 278th and Eithne Noonan 300th.
“A special mention goes to our three newbies to the Gwent – Sarah Andrews, Ellie Bourdeaux and Mel Lowe,” added Elson Chick.
“All ran superbly. They could have chosen easier conditions to start, but at least other courses will seem easier after that!”