Sorry for the delay but with other tasks in hand I'm a bit late. Well off on our travels to Sunderland and Farringdon, the dreaded start to the cross-country season. 1.8 miles of hills, ditches and a stream. With a history of injuries from competing on it, you can probably tell it is not my most favoured course.

Birtley got off to a good start with the Kelly brothers leading the way in the first race of the day. I must say doing footy training and then running a 1500 around that course, I take my hat off to both of you. Well done.

Next on the line were our U13 girls and boys. Robbie was off to a flying start, keeping the lead through to the end. Next Ade came in 3rd position with another PB. But sadly we only had 2 boys turn out and therefore lost the 1st boys team home position. First girl home overall and beating last year course time by over 30 Secs and her own PB by 1.24 mins was our Sophie, next with another PB was Sophie 2. (Sophie Forster) No warm-up and no chance to change her shoes but still managed 4th girl home. Well done!! Now Bethan (Oakes) what can we say 8th girl and beating your PB by over 1.30 mins. Excellent run. This brought our girls home 1st overall. As we moved on we came to the U15's with Steph out on the first bend with a twisted ankle, in collision with another athlete, left Mark Bailes and Sophie Robinson to carry the flag. Both stuck in and completed the course in very good times.

Now we come to the big event the seniors / Vets team. Leading the way was Carl coming in too quick for my liking. (Go a bit slower) 2nd up was Lee again too quick (howay lads I hate this course). 3rd leg was good old Pat in more my type of pace. That left last leg to me, hindered by an official that didn't get the connection between Pats Birtley top and mine as being on the same team. I was off and I got round with out injury but with a little (big bit of) persuasion from Lee and Shaun not to stop on the hill. (Boy do I hate this course) and no! I was not going to hit you during your little persuading!!! The thought never crossed my mind (liar), and a PB for the course to boot.

Last but not least was Maggie. Last one to leave an event as her races are usually last, Maggie set off and finished a credible 20th place in women's senior race. Well another good outing for Birtley in what turned out to be a very nice and warm day. Well done to every one. Ade how did you manage to eat all of that hot dog it was as big as you. Mind Robbie would not let me help him eat his sandwich either.