The Tartan Games - Gateshead Stadium 25.08.07

Well had we not been flippin' competing again, I was going to be away somewhere with the tent and some friends for the bank holiday weekend!! Linda was just as pleased to be sleeping in her own bed this weekend, 'cos I am old school camper, and won't let her pack the airbed!!

I had a few things to do before I went to the meeting, and had to leave early, to finish them off, so I didn't even see my little favourites compete in all her events…got you all wondering who that is now haven't I !!???

I must admit though, I was late getting there, and was still there about an hour before Steph and Robbie arrived, apparently still jet lagged from their trip to Europe. We all know they hadn't slept in, they were waiting for Stephs' tan to dry on her legs (hee hee).

Anyway, an early mention for the lovely Tracy Laws, who had to withdraw from the games as a regional call up for her to represent the North East in the 1500m and then changed to the 800m. I know she would have preferred the 1500, but am told by Tommy, that she did very well, and came 4th, with a PB so you can't wish for more than that, well done Trace.

Steph Lorraine also was called up for the same meeting, but was sunning herself, and was unavailable to confirm acceptance. Steph ran in the 800m at Gateshead and came 2nd in a time of 2:24 not bad for her first 800 since returning from injury. Brother Robbie also was 2nd in the 800, with a PB of 2:26, so well done Robbie, …don't ask about Adrian, poor kid it just wasn't his day!!

Our Sophe had a cracking run in the 800m girlies race, I do believe she did something like 2:27, anyway she won by loads, I am told she was 2nd in the hurdles, and also won the long jump. She is on fire at the moment almost unbeatable, long may it last. Well done Sophie.(I think she actually got two new PB's in the long jump and hurdles, but you would need to ask her for confirmation of that) Kayleigh Brown, I don't know if she is old enough now, or if this was just one of those events she could compete in, but she certainly competes wherever she can. 1st in the cricket ball throw, with 27.4 she did the standing long jump, and the 60metres sprint, and was 4th in the under 13 shot putt with 5.29…….AND she was captain of the tug of war…..but we lost that to the much bigger older kids from Chester le Street, even though when we realised they were cheating we sneaked a few extras in for the second pull, but to no avail.

Paige Gilhespy ran the 800m, but I have no time or position, sorry, but for it to be mentioned Paige, you must have done well.

Jessica Wilson won the U17 shot with 7.97 and the Hammer with 30.71 and Jordan Todd I think it was in the Hammer with 34.84….that discipline scares me.

Steph Hopkinson won both the U20 Shot with 10.57 and Discus with 30.57, Rebecca Pottinger won the High Jump with 1.60mtrs. Well done to the 4 of you.

Kate Murphys' mam asked me to have a word with Kate before the race and to give her a shout. I don't know why because my own kids don't listen to me so I wouldn't expect her to!! Anyway we had a chat, and she did what I said, tried her hardest and enjoyed the moment. She was 4th in her 100m final, although I thought she had been 2nd, but sometimes winning the race is not important at this age. Kate got a new PB, (13.95) and that is sometimes more important when you are the youngest in the race. Kate has made an improvement in her performance, and will still be in this age group next year, and that is the year she should win the races, this year is practise and preparation for next year. She also ran the 200m and was second, and 4th in the long jump, no times or distances.

Cameron Howell did the 60m, standing long jump and cricket ball throw, no results provided Cam, sorry son. Sister Paige turned up but had decided not to compete this time. Actually she had decided not to compete at 9.30 the night before when she was at the QE getting her leg put back together. A nasty fall off her bike and apparently she jammed her foot in the wheel, and broke her foot/leg in two places, and the pedals gouged something down to the bone. Wouldn't have minded a picture of that for the website…yuk. Hope you get well soon Paige and can start competing again, hopefully with no lasting damage. Get well soon from all at the club Paige!

I did notice Amanda and Emma weren't there either, they are usually there if for no other reason than to pick on Mark, Ha, missed opportunity there lasses, Mark was there…where were you??? Hope you enjoyed your holidays.

So that is just about it, I think there are only two more track events left this season at Carlisle, and then, back to proper stuff, the Harrier league, running in mud up to your knees, I can't wait for them . If I missed anyone out, it was Kate and Kayleighs' mams who provided information, so go and shout at them!! Apart from that usual disclaimer applies!