Len Platt of Wallasey A.C. rose to the occasion in fine style last Saturday, when representing Great Britain in the British Games at London's White City Stadium, winning the long jump event with a leap of 28 ft 2ins.
Evidently approaching his fine form of last season when he first made his mark at national level, Len on this occasion beat an international field which included the American team representative, and the Nigerian, Olowu, as well as the top ranking British jumpers.
In second place was another British jumper, K. Wilmhurst, who recently broke the English native record for the hop, step and jump.
This win should give Len the confidence he needs for the forthcoming tour with the British team when he will compete against Germany in Berlin and Sweden in Stockholm.
This will certainly be Platt's biggest test to date as Germany in particular have several long jumpers credited with over 24ft.
Although Platt has definitely been chosen with Wilmhurst for the hop, step and jump, there will be keen competition for the two long jump places, as in addition to these two their rivals, Whaley and. Cruttenden, will also be in the party.
With the exception of swimmer Lillian Preece it must be many a long day since Wallasey could boast a full international at any sport, and particularly in these exceptionally competitive times, Len deserves full marks for his achievements.
Incidentally, it may be worthy of note that Platt received a note of congratulation from Ernie Warrington on behalf of Wallasey Swimming Club - a nice gesture from one sport to another which is the sort of thing which helps to keep sport generally in the right perspective.
Margaret Collings was the only other Wallasey athlete engaged last Saturday, and she was successful in getting through to the final of the hundred yards at Widnes, only to be edged out of a place in a very tight finish.
The big event this Saturday is the annual Liverpool Civic Marathon in which three Wallasey runners will be setting out on the 26¼ mile journey round Liverpool's suburbs.
Foremost of these is likely to be 48 years old Frank Ledward who, so far as running is concerned, seems to be quite ageless and who still has a turn of speed which would not disgrace a much younger man. He has completed an arduous training programme for this race and subject to the usual hazards of this most exacting event, may be depended upon to keep the Wallasey flag flying.
Making their first venture at this distance are Ray Scammel and John Winrow, who although rather short of training are hoping to at least reach the 20-mile mark. Close support is tremendously encouraging in marathon racing and club members with bicycles are asked to rally round and give support on the route.
The race starts at 2.15 p.m. from St. George's Hall plateau in Lime St. and finishes at the Liverpool F.C. football ground some 2½ to 3 hours later.
All remaining club track championships will be held at the same time as the club pentathlon championship on Saturday, August 22. Details next week.
Tickets are still available for the club dance to be held next Friday at the Tower Ballroom and can be obtained from any club member or Ron Hubbard, 44 Tollemache Street, New Brighton.
Ends
Source - Wallasey News - Saturday, 15/08/1953 by R.M.
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