Last Sunday, February 6, Ron Barlow represented Great Britain in an international cross-country race at Chartres in France. Barlow ran brilliantly to finish in nineteenth position. The individual winner of the race was Michel Jazy, the French world record holder, who won by a considerable distance from a fellow Frenchman.
The first British runner home was Mel Batty in 5th position in 27 mins. 23 secs., only 34 secs, behind the winner. Batty was followed home by Tim Briantt in 7th position. Although Ron Barlow did not finish high enough to count for team points, this performance must certainly be the best of Barlow's athletic career and certainly justifies his selection as Wallasey's sportsman of the year.
In the team event Great Britain finished second behind the fabulous French team.
Today the Northern Counties Championship is being held Huddersfield, and Wallasey A. C. will be entering a Youths and Boys team. It is hoped that our Boys team will be high in the team placings, whilst Dave Lockley must have a very good chance of finishing in the first three positions in the individua race. Lockley, of course, w. once again be running against the English Schools' Champion, Buckley of Wigan A.C.
Distance running and hill training has now taken over the training programme of most athletes at the club in order to reach peak fitness for the now quickly approaching track season. A number of sprinters are already going down to the club and it is expected that this early training should provide the club with a bevy of fine short-distance men.
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Source - Wallasey News - Saturday, 12/02/1966 by J.M.
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