Colwyn Bay - North Wales X Country League

There was nostalgia in the air as well as success when Shrewsbury Athletic Club runners competed in the first North Wales Cross Country League race at Colwyn Bay on Saturday.

Mike James, fresh from his recent success in the Stretton Skyline, stormed to 2nd place behind Telford AC’s international star Chris Davies, while Club legend, Ian Coupland showed that he had lost none of his outstanding form since last wearing a Shrewsbury vest some years ago, with a welcome return in 5th place. It was also great to see Duncan Beale again, finishing in a close grouping with Kevin Francis and Club captain Graham Jones, the trio finishing in 24th, 25th and 27th places. Steve Hatton and Steve Waters , both in close proximity, completed the team placings in 42nd and 43rd places. A great start to the campaign, placing first in the team event, followed by Abergele and Telford (subject to official confirmation)

Anna Bartlett, building on another successful summer fell season, fought her way to 2nd place in the Womens’ race.

Most notable, however, was the appearance of Club legend and elder statesman, Evan Williams. Evan, much to the delight of club colleagues and acquaintances from the other North Wales clubs, lined up to compete in a North Wales cross country event for the first time for many years, proving that age is no barrier, by finishing 3rd in the over 70 Mens’ Veteran category. With so many Club, Welsh records and even a world record achieved over the years, Evan had just enough time to go over old times with his many friends, before it was time to board the Club coach to leave for home.

All in all, a memorable day.

Colwyn Bay Results:
2 Mike James
5 Ian Coupland
24 Duncan Beale
25 Kevin Francis
27 Graham Jones
42 Steve Hatton
43 Steve Waters
45 Dominic Kirby
67 Steve Turk
71 Chris Wakeman
113 Duncan Rose
120 Ben Nash
127 Derek Owen
143 Dan Fleetwood
155 Steve Oliver


Ladies Race
2 Anna Bartlett
71 Sheila Richards

Over 70 Mens Race
3 Evan Williams