Birmingham 2022 was a fantastic celebration of sport, and Halesowen played a full role in helping the Games run smoothly.
Our a team of young athletes, led by Sam Morton (pictured above), did sterling work as volunteers at the Alexander Stadium.
On the track, our star pole vaulter Sophie Cook finished eighth in the final.
Sophie cleared her opening height of 4.10m on her first attempt, before improving to 4.25m on her third attempt.
She then bowed out of the competition despite coming close to progressing at 4.35m.
Sophie said: “It was an incredible evening and an experience I will never ever forget.
“The crowd was like nothing I’ve ever experienced, it really was a magical atmosphere out there.
“Unfortunately, I’ve been struggling with a few health issues recently but I’m fired up and aiming to get ready for European Champs in Munich now.
“A huge thank you to England Athletics for the incredible opportunity and your incredible support.
“But also to everyone that came to watch, and to everyone that messaged and stayed up around the world to watch me fulfill a lifelong dream of making it to these Games.
“Birmingham thank you so so much for the support out there, you made a special moment even more special.”
On the night of the Pole Vault final, Halesowen was mentioned five times on the stadium PA!
And this was not only due to Sophie Cook’s endeavours, but also the club’s presence the previous day at the test session ahead of the start of the athletics programme.
Our squad of fine but “fake” athletes were called to take part in a number of events to ensure the facilities and equipment were in full working order.
The old gold vests dazzled in the sparkling new stadium and Paul Allen was referred to several times as “King of Halesowen” by the stadium announcer following his impressive performance in the relay!
Paul’s Royal moniker may not last, but memories of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games certainly will.
An incredible 11 days for Birmingham and the West Midlands and we hope it will inspire generations of current and future Halesowen athletes in the years to come.
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