The final meeting of the season in the Midland Vets League at Redditch saw one of the biggest HACC turnouts in recent years.
Led by team managers Roger Mallard and Alex Morgan, Halesowen’s mix of wily veterans and track newcomers competed across a wide range of events at the Abbey Stadium.
James Ludlow acquitted himself well in his 800m debut and Karen Thompson grinded out the laps in style in the 3000m.
Fellow debutant Judy Foster put her claim in to be HACC’s KJT by competing in the 200m, 800m, triple jump and javelin!
There was also an epic high jump smackdown between Sam Morton and Alex Morgan which may or may not result in a flat mackerel nomination for his , sorry … their less than spectacular performance!
To find out if this is the case, then be at the next club monthly meeting on Monday 1st September!
There were four event winners on the night with Halesowen completing a clean sweep of the men’s 800m races.
Paul Bradley (M35), Marc Turner (M50) and Simon Thompson (M60) ensured maximum male middle distance points!
Rivah de Winter was the clear winner of the W35 hammer, finishing over seven metres clear of her second placed rival.
There was also a top team of old gold officials with Matt Allen, Graeme Gill and Maurice Endacott making sure the evening ran smoothly.
Here are the provisional results from the night:
Alex Morgan said: “The club had a great turnout with some terrific individual performances.
“We also had quite a number of newcomers to the vets competition.
“Most of all we all had a fun night.
“It looks like both mens and ladies teams came fourth in their respective leagues on the night and overall.
“I would like to extend special thanks on behalf of the competitors to those that officiated over the season. We couldn’t have competed without you giving up personal time to help out. Thank you.
“For next year, prepare to take on the challenge of climbing up the league. We have the talent and the numbers.
“I am already looking forward to it.”
The evening ended with the team gathering for drinks at the Weighbridge Inn in Alvechurch.
There’s one more chance for Vets track action this summer as Halesowen has been invited to take part in the League Final at Nuneaton on Sunday 7th September, which pits all the clubs from South, North and East Divisions together in the climax to the season.
This is dependent on there being sufficient interest from our athletes so do get in touch with Alex or Roger if you wish to take part.
The League will return in 2026 with four fixtures held on Wednesday evenings from May to August and it is open to all athletes aged 35 years and older.
It allows athletes of all abilities to try their hand at track and field events in a competitive yet friendly atmosphere.
You may even try an event you have never done before and like it!
(Just don’t ask Paul Allen for his views on racewalking right now …)
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