Eight members contested the Club Novice Championship last Saturday over a short six miles course, since in addition to the Wright Challenge Cup and medals awarded to the winner and runner-up, there was also a sealed handicap to sustain interest among the less speedy competitors.
As forecasted last week, the championship readily resolved itself into a straight race between L. Bell and K. Baird. The proverbial dark horse failed to materialise and the favourites had it all their own way.
K. Baird led from the start and after the first two miles had secured a comfortable lead of over 100 yards. He then made the fatal mistake of easing up and at Moreton the second man, L. Bell, had drawn level.
From this point neither runner attempted to force the pace, which was decidedly slow, and the pair were still together 200 yards from home. Both then made their effort and in a fast finish L. Bell won by a few yards.
G. Crompton ran well to finish 3rd with J. Davies 4th and H. C. Binns 5th. The latter, who was considered by many to have more than an outside chance of winning, failed completely to produce the form of which he is capable and never at any stage of the race looked like overhauling the leaders.
J. Davies won the sealed handicap, with T. Williamson 2nd and C. Simmonds 3rd.
Results as follows :-
Time
1. - L. Bell 40 30
2.- K. Baird 40 31
3.- G. Crompton 43 10
4.- J. Davies 43 35
5.- H. C. Binns 44 0
6.- C. Simmonds 46 5
W. A. Geddes gave a good performance last Saturday in winning the second novice medal in the Longridge to Preston walk (about seven miles), finishing 17th in the scratch event.
The team entered in the West Lancashire Novice Championship at Makerfield next Saturday will have a final practice run to-day from Leasowe-road headquarters.
Prospective new members can obtain information re the club's activities from the hon. secretary, Mr. R. G. Hyde, 14 Cromer-drive.
Ends
Source - Wallasey News - Saturday, 01/12/1934
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