Last Saturday saw the opening of the cross-country season with the annual Monstre meet held at Wirral Athletic Club's headquarters, Prenton.
Wallasey was by no means disgraced in the turnout which numbered several hundred's of Merseyside's athletes, but it would have been more pleasing to have seen more of Wallasey's red vests and at the same time it would have gained more prestige for the club.
The course of 8 miles was mainly composed of the district on and around Bidston Hill. After two mile the boys of under sixteen broke off to have their half-mile race on the road. This was won by E. Forde, the national schools champion at this distance. Wallasey's best performer in this group was Don Carter who attained fifth place, an extremely good performance considering the competition.
After another two miles running the novices left the main group to have their mile 'break'. In this race Wallasey gained first place with Ron Barlow and also tenth place by Tony Townsend. Dave White and Phil Townsend also ran well considering that this is not their specialised distance, both preferring the longer distances.
The seniors completed eight miles before having their mile 'break'. Kevin Gilligan of Liverpool Pembroke Harriers proved that he is in top form by winning handsomely from Ron Williams and Ian Keith, both also of Liverpool Pembroke. First home for Wallasey was John Lynch closely followed by John Ryan.
Ends
Source - Wallasey News - Saturday, 08/10/1955
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