WHILE we have reported on the success of our local runners in the English Cross Country Championships we have yet to mention the superb achievement of Artie Savage-Swaine – so here we go!
The Westbury Harrier contested the Welsh Championships on the same day and produced a mighty performance to win the under 17 men’s title.
Savage-Swaine, who is coached by Neil Miller, showed great character and determination at Pembrey Park, near Llanelli, as he saw his initial lead disappear mid-race only to find a second surge to finally see off his rivals and finish 16 seconds clear of the field.
Winning in such a style is testament not just to Savage-Swaine’s physical fitness but also his mental strength.
For background Savage-Swaine qualifies to run the Welsh Championships as he was born in Caerphilly before his family moved across the River Severn to Bristol.
But as it was stated on the Harriers Facebook site: ‘Whilst he may not have a traditional Welsh name, and was proudly running in a Westbury vest, Artie gently reminded his post-race Pembrey interviewer of his Caerphilly birthplace and early years in Cardiff.
‘Very well done once again, from all at Westbury Harriers. Worth saying again – a national champion.’
Everyone at the Easy Runner Blog echoes those sentiments.