Some of our athletes travelled to Cardiff to take part in the first round of the British cross challenge, and conditions were perfect for some great racing. The course at Llandaff fields is mostly flat, with quite a few twists and turns.

All British cross challenge races in the day had the Gwent cross country league incorporated into each race.

First up was Norah K in the U11 girls 1250m race. This race as well as the cross challenge and Gwent league, had the Welsh primary schools races, so it was a frantic start. Despite not being in anyway a sprinter, Norah got off the line and in to the top 15. From there on, she gradually picked off runners all the way to the finish and managed to cross the line in sixth place only a few seconds off a podium finish. Without a shadow of a doubt her best ever performance. Top running Norah!

Next up was Ben K over the same course and distance as his sister. This race was another massive field where if you didn’t get a good position at the start, you would have your work cut out trying to gain places. Ben found himself mid pack at the start of the race and was able to pick off some sports on his way to crossing the line in around 29th place. Smashing running Ben.

Next up was our U13 girls with Roni K and Arya CJ running in the 2760m race. Roni set off hard and found herself in 2nd place for a large part of the race. Despite being overtaken by a few runners she was still able to finish in 6th as a lower year. Knowing Roni, she may be a little disappointed, but she really shouldn’t be as this was an amazing run. Arya also and lower year has come on from strength to strength this season and at every big event such as the midland road relays, national road relays and this event she has given best ever performances. Arya kept on to her task of closing the gaps with people in front of her managing to finish in a very impressive 22nd places having gained quite a few places on the home straight.

Next up was Oscar A in the U13 boys race. After a couple of weeks of illness and being on antibiotics just getting to the start line was a win. Although he was far from 100% he felt well enough to run and gave it his all. He was able to finish 21st, which all things considered was absolutely amazing. We are just hoping that he gets back to full health soon.

Last up was Chloe S in the U15 girls race Chloe went off very quick and found herself in the lead for the first part of the race. After being overtaken by the national champion, Chloe was able to stay strong and finish in 6th place showing she belongs up there at the top.

Spectacular running from all of the juniors today.