Wallasey athletes dominated the Monstre Meet held last Saturday from their own club headquarters, on Leasowe Road, when a field of more than 80 runners: raced over a course of, shore, embankment and road.
This event provides an opening race for all the Merseyside clubs and an unexpected challenger to Wallasey's runners John Wright and Ron Barlow was that fine young miler Martin Heath of, Waterloo.
These three were soon at the head of the field and coming off Leasowe Common were in a tight bunch some 25 yards ahead of Wallasey's Brian Woolford with another 1¼ miles to complete,
For a while none of the three appeared anxious to make a move owing to the fast pace and strong head wind, but with 600 yards to go John Wright struck and quickly opened up a gap of about 15 yards. He continued to pile on the pressure but although Heath was dropped Ron Barlow; gradually closed up to break the tape inches ahead to win as good a race, as one could wish to see.
Both runners finished in the splendid time of 17 minutes 47' seconds for the 3 ½ mile course. Heath was third in 18 minutes 3 seconds, and was closely pursued by fourth man Brian Woolford in 18 minutes 12 seconds, a very fast run for an athlete, who prefers the longer distances.
Perhaps the most significant feature from the Wallasey point of view was the fine effort of Brian Chalton in tenth position in 18 minutes 44 seconds. Although still a junior this powerful young runner continues to improve and promises to be a first-class reinforcement for the seniors in the area championships later this season.
With Kevin Mather in 20th position, followed by Phil Townsend and Vince Bayliss, Wallasey A.C. had a most successful day, particularly as David Duncan in the Youths' half mile break led all the way to win easing up. Peter Meldrum also ran well in the Boys' race to finish 4th a little ahead of newcomer Bob Hughes.
Today a training run will be held from Club headquarters, commencing at 3.15 p.m. Next week sees the first of the season's three Mob Runs which will be over a 5-niile course from Liverpool Harriers' headquarters at Woolton. Any inquiries can be made to either R. McCaig or, if not available, M.. W. Smith, at Liverpool Central 9388
Ends
Source - Wallasey News - Saturday, 08/10/1960 by R.M.C.
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