3 Oakham Cross Country Runners were selected to represent Leicester & Rutland Athletics Association (LRAA) at English Schools in Pontefract where the best runners from 46 Counties would meet to fight with their feet, and on their hands and knees if they had to.
Hattie (F3), Junior Girls, William (F4) (Inter Boys) and Ruth (F6) (Senior Girls). The day was perfect for running, not a raindrop in sight, but the ground, a condition only for the strong-willed. Fortunately, all three have an internal fight and were ready for the challenge ahead.
Hattie was the first of the 3 to race. Looked the part and played her part. Her start for the 3.2km race was near the back; therefore, she had to claw her way through the crowd of runners to get her legs going. Hattie powered through earning herself a very well deserved, and most impressive 126th place out of 300+ top English School runners. Their team achieved 12th place out of the 46 Counties so an absolute cheer for Hattie and her team.
William’s race followed shortly. His warmup was positive, his smile massively on his face, and the team were in very good spirits at the start too. There were some impressive athletes in this race and a tough challenge to fight to the front. William ran his race with grit and determination, fighting every step to the finish of his 4.5km race. Running a year younger than many in this race, it is no easy task and earning a very respectable 212th out of 350. Team Leicestershire & Rutland earning 37th place.
Ruth, having never run in a race like it, new to competitive running this year, took to the stage with a smile, excitement, and eagerness to take on the tough task. 4.2km of mud and soft ground to cover, that smile never left her face. The last km is literally a slope to the sky. With a shout and a cheer from her teammates, Ruth fought her way passed body after body. 10, 20, 30 right to the line, even another 10 or so. A truly impressive dash to the finish. Starting at the back and earning 181st out of 300+ and her a Team position of 14th. Impressive effort earning much respect from her managers and those in her team.
Well done, Oakham, well done Leicester.
