The Stags Take Over Eastbrookend Country Park in the Chingford League

Saturday 31st October saw the first Chingford League fixture of the season and in spite of the distance 49 Stags turned out compared to 27 last year; a huge improvement in numbers. Indeed, although as a Club we have the longest journey (so long that I wouldn’t be surprised if some people are still trying to get back!) we had by far the biggest turnout with all training groups very well represented which made for a very special day. In addition, we had six people making their Club debuts; Sarah C who scored for the first team, Victor, Damian, Mandy D, Kevin H and Annette, and they did themselves proud!

The course is three laps, about 8K, reasonably flat, fast and scenic, very well marked and marshalled and on mixed terrain. In truth it was more a trail race than cross country, but we didn’t mind and the weather was nice and balmy. Great conditions for racing.

Carmelo, proving once again that his decision to come out of retirement was inspired, led our men home, closely followed by Nehal and Alex while our women were led home by Charlotte M who no doubt missed the hills she likes so much but that didn’t stop her having a great race. Jenny J fresh from her success in the Summer Points Competition proved that she is equally happy on grass and was close behind Charlotte while the resurgent Steph H was our third finisher in the women’s race.

Matt had a great race, 3 minutes faster than the previous year, and has finally demonstrated he understands pacing and I’m pleased to say Giles resisted the temptation to run as a banana at this Halloween fixture since he scored for the first team in spite of, by his own admission, messing up his race tactics. In the least surprising news of the day Richard was the first M60 finisher by a country mile. Brilliant!

In the women’s race Piji had a great run, 5 minutes faster than the previous year, and there were stand out performances by Ciara, Emma S and Danielle too while Amanda R showed huge grit and determination to finish the race.

And in the unlikely event you haven’t heard Victoria beat Scott!

Not only did our many competitors give it their best on the day we had great support too in spite of the long journey there. Di’s help with the many numbers was invaluable while the encouragement offered by supporters and photographers Chloe, Alan and Ed proved very welcome.

We had the best turnout, the best support, the best cakes and the best Team Spirit but the competition, as predicted in this hugely competitive League, proved to be very fierce and our men finished 7th on the day and our women 5th.