Mansfield, 5th November 2022
After a successful venture last year, yet again Elswick decided to take some teams down to Mansfield to take on the best in the country. Some travelled down the night before to take the stress out of a really early start on the day.
We make no apologies to point out the obvious that this is a National event . All the top teams nationwide took part. For anyone who has never taken part in a national event, either as competitor or spectator, these are on another level; so a big well done to our juniors who took up the challenge with some fantastic results.
This popular national event returned yet again to Mansfield, with more than 1000 teams competing at Berry Hill Park. First held at Crystal Palace in 1985, the event moved to Berry Hill Park in Mansfield in 1989 and has remained there ever since. Geographically, the central venue in Nottinghamshire is a place many clubs can reach without too arduous a journey. The undulating course is challenging and picturesque but not too gruelling with just a few muddy bits in the woods.
With a mixture of some rain and wind it was a typical Autumnal day in November. The organisation is slick and the busy 10-race schedule, with over a thousand teams, means there are simply lots of athletes, which helps create a terrific atmosphere. Short legs for athletes ensure the racing is fast and furious, and spectator-friendly. In addition, the focus is on teams and not individuals, is undoubtedly part of the event’s winning formula.
Under 13 boys (3x2k)
With a total of 72 teams, our boys came 44th team and they are all first year u/13. Winners were Wolverhampton and Bilston.
Nicholas Surtees-Brown 7.53 – George Russell 8.57 – Dominic Kelso 8.40
Under 15 girls (3x2k)
With a total of 95 teams we came 54th . The winning team were Aldershot, Farnham & District
Poppy Wilde 8.02 – Erin Blight 8.11 – Isla Gardner 9.07
The Under 15 boys (3x2k)
With a total of 95 teams we came 63rd . The winning team were Tonbridge AC.
Liam Coulson 7.48 – Adam Jeavans 7.49 – Sam Allison 7.36
The Under 17 girls (3×2.5K)
With a total of 60 teams the girls came 13th. The winning team were Windsor Slough Eton Hounslow AC
Poppy Old 9.20 – Bella Russell 10.29 – Imogen Bungay 9.22
A final word to Andrea Banner super woman, top athlete, team organiser , transport manager , tent erector and one of our valued coaches . She was amazing to do all this and run the race. We can’t thank you enough.
Thank you to the parents who managed to be able to come down and support our juniors it was a very long day but enjoyed by all.
Hopefully we may do more events outside of the region and continue to put Elswick on the map.
A big thanks to Mansfield Harriers and all the officials who bravely stand in the cold to make sure these events go ahead.
Report by Jan & Ken