Masters Track & Field highlights

May 2023 saw the start of the Midland Masters Track and Field league, 4 league matches were contested for a place in the Cup final at the end of the season.

The first match of the season saw great representation from both the men’s and women’s teams with some new faces ‘lining up’. The women’s team remained strong throughout with many of the team setting PBs in various events throughout the season. Maria Shaw broke club records in both the 1500m (4.53.27) and 800m 2.19.99). Shelia Berry, Annabel Kanjurs, Ursula Stevens, Sue Frisby, Linda New, Jill Roginski, Jacquie Hanmer, Karen Brooks, Rosemary Ferrie, Yvette Clayton and Pam Hilliam all played their part. The team spirit was immense and everyone pulled together, often doubling up on events or ‘having a go’ at something new, which meant that the women finished third in the league.

After an amazing start, the men’s team struggled to field a team, in part due to injuries and clashes with road races. Gary Hodgkins, Chris Monk and Anton McCalla were stalwarts and clocked up as many points as they could between them; Pete Leach also helped with guest appearances in the sprints. It was also wonderful to see John Thompson grace the track again competing in the race walking. Gary Hodgkins set the track alight with several PBs in sprint races and middle distance/ 3000m races.. The men finished 6th in the league, only 1 league point behind 5th-placed Rugby Northants Saints.

Both teams compete in the Midland Masters Vets ‘B’ league Track and Field Cup final championships soon on 16th September so best of luck!