Wallasey Athletic Club acted as hosts last Saturday to other member clubs of the Liverpool & District Cross-Country Union on the occasion of the first league fixture of the season. Ten clubs took part over a fast course, although a little difficult in parts owing to the extremely hard ground.
Wallasey's quartet of Wright, Barlow, White and Woolford were soon well to the fore. Passing through Bidston Village on the way out, Wright led from Barlow, with White 3rd and Woolford 5th. These positions were more or less maintained throughout the race until, as the leaders entered the playing fields, Highton of Pembroke C. & A.C. passed White to take third place.
In the meantime John Wright, running very easily and confidently, crossed the line in a time of 30 mins. 1 sec., winning 13 seconds from Ron Barlow. With Pete, White 4th and Brian Woolford 5th, this was the backbone of Wallasey's team success, but it was the forward running of Kevin Mather in 12th place, and Phil Townsend in 8th place that ensured the team of success.
Wallasey scored 42 pts. to Pembroke's 106 pts., and Liverpool Harriers 121 pts., four other Clubs closing in complete teams.
It was pleasing to see the success of Woolford, who travelled from Sheffield to comPete in this event; also Morris who travelled from London.
For today we have accepted the invitation of Waterloo Harriers to comPete at Crosby in a friendly match. All interested in travelling should meet at Skelhorn Street, Liverpool at 2 p.m. Recent successes make it appear that Wallasey are to be the foremost Merseyside club this year, and it is hoped that all members will rally round and give every support to the more prominent runners.
Ends
Source - Wallasey News - Saturday, 24/10/1959
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