Last Saturday Homecroft paid a visit to the headquarters of Richmond Harriers at Aintree. The atmospheric conditions were far from favourable, and their muster was seriously affected in consequence. The race took the form of a run through, and it was agreed to take a course of about five miles. During the run the rain and wind were in constant attendance, and the running on the ploughed land (there were three miles of it!) was extremely heavy; indeed, the race at such times developed
into a test of stamina in clod-hopping, the value of which, as suitable training for a championship, is rather doubtful. Upon arrival at the dressing-room the visitors discovered (what their trying experiences had already led them to expect) that they had traversed not five but seven miles, this notwithstanding the previous arrangement. As an example of sportsmanship, the action of Richmond can hardly be admired, and we fear that their list of fixtures for next season will not include the name of "Homecroft." The actual result of this wretched clod-creeping contest was as follows:-
RICHMOND. Homecroft.
D. Gillan 1 P. T. Monks 3
D. G. Punton 4 C. N. Hudson 9
B. Saunders 5 S. L. Brookes 11
B. Nixon 7 W. F. Parry 12
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But let us turn to a topic of more deep and pleasant interest. On Saturday of this week Homecroft are to hold their first cross-country championship over a course of about seven miles, for which event three handsome medals (two gold and one gold centre) have been generously presented by Alderman James Smith. An additional three prizes will also be given for the sealed handicap in connection with this race. A start will be effected from Manor-road at 3 p.m.
Ends
Source - Wallasey News - Saturday, 27/01/1906
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