Girls “Leap” to team success

Helen Fines, Sally Newman and Jo Waites with their team prizes

With injuries behind them Calder Valley ladies had a great start to their English Championships with a team win in the Lads Leap fell race at Crowden. The ladies race was won by Emma Clayton of Bingley Harriers in a time of 52 mins 35 secs. Captain Helen Fines led the team with a 6th place finish followed by Jo Waites in 8th and with 3 to count for the team Sally Newman sealed it with 13th position. Waites also took second lady vet 40 only narrowly missing top spot by 12 seconds. Newman not to be outdone was the 1st lady vet 50 and both girls look to be among strong contenders for individual medals in their categories. The ladies also took top spot for the over 40s team with an informe Carole Fryer being the 3rd counter.

The Calder Valley men had one of their best starts to any English championship by taking a fantastic 3rd team spot. The competition was fierce at the front end with the winner being Simon Bailey of Mercia in a time of 44 mins 16 secs. Karl Gray led the team home with a fantastic 9th position and also 2nd Vet 40 overall. Team Captain Ben Mounsey was 15th and with Shaun Godsman (17th), Gav Mulholland (26th) and James Logue (27th) all packing in close together the team position was secured. The vets team also had a great day with a second team placing with Gray, Mulholland, Logue and Goldie being their 4 team counters.

Photo courtesy of Stephen Ellis