Tewkesbury AC runners enjoyed the second event in the Gloucestershire cross-country series. Staged conveniently at Pittville Park, Cheltenham, six men and five women performed for the club. A fine turn-out as Tewkesbury has not always been well represented at XC events. Credit due to XC secretary, Andrew Hawkins who has sparked interest within the club. The ladies team shone the brightest on the day. Firstly, with CharlotteMowbray claiming a 6th place finish in the U17 girls event. On a shorter course, Mowbray carved her way around in under 25 minutes. In the main event, superstar Angie Sadler performed so well, not only did she win herV45 category but she beat all the V40 ladies! The long distance ace ran over the tough course in 26 minutes to finish 12th overall. Just a couple of minutes later Cathy Dudfield was chased to the finish by Carol Cowley. Club Captain Dudfield ran well until the later stages when the demanding surface took its toll. Cowley dug dip to reel in her team mate, however,Dudfield had enough in reserve to cross the finish line one second ahead of Cowley who, yet again, was the top V55 performer. Lisa Kane raced her first XC race for the club and was untroubled by the conditions to place 67th. The ladies veteran team claimed 2nd place on the day amongst some strong competition. In the men's race which was longer again at just under 10km, Andy Hawkins produced the quickest time. Although the quickest from the club at 36minutes, Hawkins did not perform at his usual high standards and will be eager to run better at the next event on 9th December. Stuart Dudfield set out to run the course and finish in good shape. This he did do and completed the distance in 41 minutes. Jon Mansfield's demise continued as he was chased hard all the way by Rob Jordan who had a great run on the day. Phillip Howell's had a concerning hip niggle which hampered his day. Especially concerning, as the Ultra-distance competitor teams up with Angie Sadler this weekend to travel to France for the popular La RochelleMarathon. Praise must go to Martyn Draper as he too lost his XC virginity and worked extremely hard for 51 minutes to complete the men's team. The Men's team came in at 19th place in a high calibre field.
Girls
6th Charlotte Mowbray 24.28 mins
Women
12th Angie Sadler 26.38
30th Cathy Dudfield 28.46
31st Carol Cowely 28.47
67th Lisa Kane 31.49
Men
44th Andy Hawkins 36.07
131st Sturt Dudfield 41.32
132nd Jon Mansfield 41.40
152nd Rob Jordan 43.16
160th Phil Howells 44.23
192nd Martyn Draper 51.39