Brian Woolford, of Wallasey A.C., by his performance in the Red Rose "20" at Morecambe last week, has firmly laid claim to the respect all road runners, whether at home or abroad.
To be beaten by the English cross-country champion, Gerry North, is no disgrace, and is indeed the lot of most distance runners, but to be beaten by the great Lancastrian by only four seconds in 20 miles is something of which to be immensely proud. To throw in a smashed Fred Norris record for good measure raises the performance much above the ordinary It was clear from the start that something good was cooking for the leading bunch were quickly set in a pace which brought them past the five miles mark in the amazingly fast time of 25 mins. 40 secs. At 15 miles it was still Woolford in front, but he had been joined by North in 78 mins. 29 secs., and Fred Howe was five seconds behind. Racing hard, they took the outer lap for the last time and it was Woolford who first reached the promenade, although only leading by a few strides. North was not comfortable about this and with half a mile of tightly packed promenade to rover, he threw in all he knew, and snatched a short lead before the tape was reached.
The time was 1 hour 44 minutes 52 seconds, and the old record was broken by 19 seconds. Woolford did 1 hour 44 mins. 36 secs., also inside the old record, and Howe was third in 1 hour 46 mins. 7 secs
The only other Merseysider to complete the full course was Jack Swann, of Waterloo Harriers. who, relieved of secretarial duties, celebrated by finishing 21st in 2 hours 16 mins. 28 secs. Well done, Jack. Even the stronger clubs find it difficult to complete a team of three runners over this distance, and it was not until R .Spencer arrived in 22nd position, that it could he announced that Blackpool had won.
North, being now first claim for Belgrave, could not represent Blackpool in the team race as this was an open event and so they counted Howe 3, Bradshaw 5, and Spencer 22. to score 30 points.
Leeds Harehills were very surprised to find themselves in second place with 46 points, and Leigh Harriers, who were out again on the following day taking part in a hill race in the Lake District, took third place with 13, 23, and 24; 60 points.
Ends
Source - Liverpool Echo - Saturday, 15/09/1962 by J. C. Rice
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