WCAC Endurance League

With only September to go, the league tables are certainly hotting up. There is a change at the top of the women’s league, as Joy edges ahead of Emma, with Anest clear in 3rd. Paul leads the men’s table by a single point from joint 2nd placers Andrew and Jeff.

See the Races page for full tables. Please address any queries to [email protected].

Press Report: National Medals for WCAC Trio

ATHLETICS
by Dennis Wall

HANNAH HUGHES recorded a national title in her West Cheshire Athletic Club debut.

Hannah, who has joined the purple-vested club from Liverpool Harriers, won the over-35 women’s 1500m in a time of 4:59.29 at the British Masters Track and Field Championships at Derby’s Moorways Stadium.

Hannah was joined at the fixture by Alan Littler and Christian Holcombe who also pocketed medals.

Alan secured a silver medal in the over-35 men’s 800m in a time of 2:22.14 after a sprint finish following a very slow and tactical race, as well as clinching equal bronze in the high jump with 1.65m, and clocking a new 400m personal best of 54.57 seconds for sixth place to smash his previous best registered nine years ago.

Christian claimed a bronze medal in the over-45 men’s triple jump with 12.22m and fourth place in the long jump with 5.49m.

ARIANWEN SETTERS, Chloe Golightly and Ivy Bowden combined to secure team bronze medals in the Cheshire Road Relay Championships incorporated into the North West Championships at Heaton Park, Manchester.

Nia Manson, Amelia Snowden and Rose Sheppard teamed up for fourth spot in the Cheshire under 16 girls event, while Daniel Kuzia, Hamish Robinson and Finley Edwards combined for fifth place in the Cheshire under 14 boys event.

Lewis Morris, Matthew Douglass, Scott Wells and Paul Morrison teamed up for fifth spot in the Cheshire senior men’s event, while Graham Wells, Brian Cremin, Joseph Morrison and Noah Woolgar were ninth, and the trio of Emma Nutt, Ellie Robinson and Sallyann Harper teamed up for seventh spot in the Cheshire senior women’s team event.

WEST CHESHIRE members capitalised on home advantage at the final round of the Cheshire Track and Field Grand Prix, held at Ellesmere Port Sports Village.

Arwen Thorne prepared for this weekend’s appearance at the English Schools Combined Events Championships at Bedford with a 39.39m throw in the under 18 girls javelin, while her sisters Violet and Merryn were also in action, with Violet producing success in the under 16 girls 80m hurdles (13.83), and javelin (20.68m), and Merryn appearing in hurdles, long jump, and javelin.

Sharon Stoll won the over-55 women’s javelin and hammer, while Satine Wearden hit a winning mark of 42.97m in the hammer, and Dylan Gledhill won the under 16 boys javelin with 40.73m.

Savannah Baynes (12.14) and Lyra Allison (12.15) scored a 1-2 in the under 10 girls 75m, while Polly Morait (21.51), Heidi Anstey (21.66) and Louisa Cogan (22.17) secured a 1-2-3 in the under 12 girls 150m.

Jayden Walls won the under 16 boys 200m in 24.43, ahead of his clubmates who occupied second to eighth places: Louis Grimes (24.58), Dan Crosby (24.74), Kade Harris (24.82), Dylan Gledhill (25.10), Sid March (25.45), Harry Deal (26.01), and John Velasquez (26.15).

Alba March (25.48), Immy Fives (26.37), Erin Barnard (27.71), and Beth Duke (30.03) were the top four finishers in the under 18 women’s 200m, while Joy Hickman claimed over 60 women 200m (35.97) and 800m (3:04.29) personal bests.

Charles Uchenna won the under 12 boys 150m in 20.75m while Harvey Elliott clocked a winning under 14 boys 200m time of 26.62, and Abigail Morait (27.60) won the under 16 girls 200m ahead of Amelia Owen (28.77) and Phoebe Hessey (28.99) who both clocked new personal bests.

Jacob Gardner (23.48), Jacob Reese (27.34) and Oliver James (28.03) won their age group 200m races, while Sid March won the under 16 boys long jump with 5.44m and Lyra Allison won the under 10 girls 600m in a new pb of 2:05.10 ahead of Savannah Baynes (2:14.43) and Mina Saville (2:17.91) who also posted new pb’s.

Other West Cheshire members in action included Freya Whittaker, Arianwen Setters, Edwyn Young, Saskia Keresturova, Amber Cogan, Finley Edwards, Alfie Elliott, Murray Robinson, Jessie Brindle, Anna Dooley, Hamish Robinson, Charlotte Thomas, Luke Gardner, Ivy Bowden, Sam Arnold, Jamie Thomas, Rosie and George Grimsditch, Jack Arnold, Joseph Whitehart, Hermione Allison, and Megan Kettle.

DUNCAN HARRIS was first home for West Cheshire and first over-55 man to finish the Wirral Multii Terrain Race at Royden Park with a time of 33:13, ahead of his son, Adam who posted 33:31 for 13th place in the senior men’s age category.

Andrew Clague (fourth over 55 man in 34:40), Jeff Gifford (first over-60 man in 34:49), Andy Manson (seventh over-50 man in 35:59), Ian Pritchard (10th over-55 man in 40:33), Sallyann Harper (fourth over-50 lady in 41:04) and Tony Kennedy (13th over-65 man in 49:22) completed West Cheshire’s contingent at the fixture.

FIXTURES this weekend include the English Schools Combined Events Championships, at Bedford, on Saturday and Sunday; and the Northern Road Relay Championships, at Silksworth, Sunderland, on Sunday.

ENTRIES are now being accepted for the Final Fling Open Throws Meeting taking place at Wrexham on Saturday and Sunday, September 26 and 27. Under 10s, Under 12s, Under 14s, Under 16s and Under 18s on Saturday; and Under 20s, Seniors and Veterans on Sunday.

Online entries by email to: [email protected]

THE date and venue for the final race in this year’s Wirral Multi Terrain Race Series is: September 22, Arrowe Park, Birkenhead. The online entry page is: https://wirralmultiterrain.niftyentries.com/Wirral-Multi-Terrain-Series-2026

Press Report: WCAC Stay in Top Flight

by Dennis Wall

ATHLETICS

WEST CHESHIRE ATHLETIC CLUB has retained its place in the Northern Track and Field League Premier West Division for next year.

The purple and gold-vested outfit finished fourth in the final round held at Longford Park Stadium, Trafford, to secure third spot in the overall final standings.

Team manager, Alan Littler, led by example for the Ellesmere Port Sports Village-based club in preparation for this weekend’s appearance at the British Masters Track and Field Championships.

Alan posted a new season’s best in the 200m of 25.50 seconds, scored vital points in the shot put and hammer, produced a clearance of 1-70m in his first high jump competition of the year to equal his best over-35 men’s height, and broke his nine year old 400m personal best by 0.12 seconds.

Arwen Thorne, Favour Akpan, Satine Wearden, and Danielle Erskine all delivered important victories to build on the impressive team spirit throughout the squad.

Arwen won the high jump (1-53m),while Favour triumphed in the triple jump (11.48m), Satine added 16cms to her 4kg hammer best for a winning mark of 35.59m, and Danielle claimed maximum points from the B long jump (4.16m) and B triple jump (9.15m).

Other important point scoring members of the team included Joy Hickman improved her 2,000m steeplechase best by 1.7 seconds, as well as Lewis Parsons, Paul Morrison, Lewis Morris, Henry Robinson, Andy Gore, Andy Parker, Dave McKay, Erin Barnard, Beth Manson, Bethan Duke, Anita Boreham, Emma Nutt, and Megan Kettle. 

Final Round Result: 1 Trafford AC 436 points; 2 Blackburn Harriers & AC 336; 3 Bury AC 335; 4 West Cheshire AC 329; 5 Sale Harriers Manchester 301; 6 Wirral AC 206.

The final overall standings are: 1 Trafford AC 23 league points (1645.5 match points); 2 Blackburn Harriers & AC 21 (1493.5); 3 West Cheshire AC 12 (1291.5); 4 Sale Harriers Manchester 11 (1335); 5 Bury AC 11 (1243); 6 Wirral AC 5 (1054.5). 

Bury and Wirral are relegated and will be replaced next year by Team Isle of Man and Blackpool.

DAVE SHEARER, Jodi Bemand, and Jeff Gifford celebrated success on Sunday, at the Sandstone Trail Half Marathon.

Dave won the over 40 men’s age group with a time of 1:33:38, while Jodi was first senior lady with 1:48:35, and Jeff claimed top spot in his over 60 age category with 1:53:06.

Sam Oliver finished third overall in a time of 1:31:13, while Graham Wells clocked 1:44:10 for second spot in his over 50 age group, and Andrew Clague was fourth in his over 50 age group with 1:51:03.

Steve Fernyhough posted 1:52:25 for seventh place in his over 40 age group, while Kevin Eaton clocked 1:55:04, Julie Douzant posted 2:02:47 for fourth over 35 lady, and Emma Nutt was second senior lady in 2:03:35.

JEFF GIFFORD and Andrew Clague won overall victories after the final round of the Deestriders Off Road Grand Prix Series, at Shotton, on Friday night.

Jeff clocked 28:55 at the final race to win his over 60 age group award, and Andrew won the over-55 men’s prize after clocking 29:36 at the final round.

Steve Fernyhough finished seventh on Friday with a time of 26:33, ahead of Mark Davies (28th in 31:25), Sallyann Harper (sixth lady in 34:05), and Tony Kennedy (58th in 39:07).

LEWIS MORRIS clocked 4:34.97 for the one mile on Saturday, at the British Milers Club Meeting, held at Bury.

MATTHEW DOUGLASS was first home for West Cheshire at the opening round of the Wirral Multi Terrain League Series, held at Thurstaston Wirral County Park.

Matthew secured sixth spot in 27:11, backed up by Paul Morrison (48th in 31:40), Duncan Harris (second over-55 man and 52nd overall in 32:22), Adam Harris (67th in 33:35), Andy Manson (fourth over 50 man and 79th overall in 34:26), Fraser Campbell (90th in 35:25), Phil Gent (156th in 40:18), Andy Carter (169th in 41:10), and Tony Kennedy (238th in 46:49).

FIXTURES this weekend include the British Masters Track and Field Championships, at Derby, on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday; the North West and Cheshire Road Relay Championships on Saturday at Heaton Park, Manchester; and the final round of the Cheshire Track and Field Grand Prix, at Ellesmere Port Sports Village, on Sunday.

WIRRAL AC are organising an Open Track and Field Meeting for Under 10s, Under 12s, Under 14s, Under 16s, and Under 18s on Wednesday, September 16 (6-9pm), at Bebington Oval. Further details: https://meets.rosterathletics.com/public/competitions/details/about?id=29479

ENTRIES are now being accepted for the Final Fling Open Throws Meeting taking place at Wrexham on Saturday and Sunday, September 26 and 27. Under 10s, Under 12s, Under 14s, Under 16s and Under 18s on Saturday; and Under 20s, Seniors and Veterans on Sunday.

Online entries by email to: [email protected]

THE dates and venues for this year’s Wirral Multi Terrain Race Series are: September 15, Harrison Drive, Wallasey; September 22, Arrowe Park, Birkenhead. The online entry page is: https://wirralmultiterrain.niftyentries.com/Wirral-Multi-Terrain-Series-2026

FIXTURES for the 2026-27 Borders Road Running League are: Race 1 β€“ 04/10/2026 – Wrecsam Tri at Llandegla; Race 2 β€“ 01/11/2026 – Birkenhead; Race 3 β€“ 06/12/2025 – Eryri at Trac Mon; Race 4 β€“ 31/01/2027 – West Cheshire (or UTS); Race 5 β€“ 28/02/2027 – UTS (or West Cheshire); Race 6 β€“ 21/03/2027 – Deeside AC or Wrexham AC; Relay & Presentation night – Wednesday 5th May or 12th – Deeside AC or Wrexham AC.

WCAC News #584 4-9-2026

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Many happy returns to the following club members who celebrate their birthdays this week:

Imogen Pughe, Sharon Stoll, Rob Little, Victor Oyesola, Amir Driouiche, Amber Cogan, Raphael Orlinski, Mia Cooke.

PLEASE VOLUNTEER TO URGENTLY HELP YOUR CLUB

Volunteers are always needed to assist with club track training sessions on Tuesdays (from 6pm) and Thursdays (from 6.30pm). Please help if you can!

Helpers are also urgently needed from 5.50pm on Tuesdays and 6.20pm on Thursdays to register everyone on the tablet who attends EPSV training sessions.

PLAY A PART IN DRIVING YOUR CLUB FORWARD…

Are you interested in athletics and would you like to help shape your club for the future? West Cheshire AC is looking for new Committee members, and this is the ideal opportunity for you to have your input and help bring new initiatives and drive the club forward. In particular we are looking for a Chairperson to take over from November 2026, but new candidates for all roles are always welcome. The About Us page of the club website gives a breakdown of current club committee members and their roles. So if you want to find out more, please drop us a line on: [email protected] and let us know if you have a specific area of interest or expertise you feel would be useful or if you simply want to join the Committee.

DATE FOR THE DIARY…

The Club AGM will be held in the EPSV Trackside Room on Tuesday, 24th November, at 7.45pm.

SATURDAY MORNING TRAINING IS ON

Please note that the run-jump-throw training session tomorrow (Saturday, 5th September), between 10am and 12 noon, at Ellesmere Port Sports Village Athletics Track is on.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Well done to the club’s Northern Track & Field League team on Sunday at Trafford who ensured West Cheshire AC retain their place in next season’s West Premier Division, with a special mention to Alan Littler who posted a new season’s best in the 200m, filled in on throws, and went into his first high jump of the year with a managed injury. Alan has been helping to manage the team, and he broke his 9 year old 400m PB by 0.12 seconds ahead of the British Masters Championships later this month.

The final overall standings are: 1 Trafford AC 23 league points (1645.5 match points); 2 Blackburn Harriers & AC 21 (1493.5); 3 West Cheshire AC 12 (1291.5); 4 Sale Harriers Manchester 11 (1335); 5 Bury AC 11 (1243); 6 Wirral AC 5 (1054.5). 

Bury and Wirral are relegated and will be replaced next year by Team Isle of Man and Blackpool.

FINAL CHANCE TO ENTER CHESHIRE TRACK & FIELD GRAND PRIX AT EPSV

ENTRIES close on September 9 for the final round of the Cheshire Track and Field Grand Prix being held at Ellesmere Port Sports Village, on Sunday, September 13. The online entry link is: https://meets.rosterathletics.com/public/competitions/details/about?id=29271

CROSS COUNTRY UPDATE…

West Cheshire AC is affiliated to three cross-country leagues, all of which begin in autumn and run well into winter, as follows: 

Manchester Area League: Races across all age groups from under-12s upwards (minimum age 10 on 31/08/27), at five venues between October and February. Website: https://maccl.co.uk/

North Wales League: Races across all age groups from under-10s upwards (minimum age 9 on 01/09/26), at five venues between October and February. Website: https://www.facebook.com/groups/northwalesxc

North Staffordshire League: Races across all age groups from under-10s upwards (minimum age 9 on race day), at four venues between late September and December. Website: https://www.entrycentral.com/nsccl

To take part in any of these leagues except Manchester, you need to be a first-claim fully paid-up West Cheshire AC member (ie your β€œmain” club needs to be WCAC); Manchester also allows second-claim members.

Members need to self-register and pay if they wish to enter any of the North Staffs League races; there is no need to inform West Cheshire AC if you do so. 

West Cheshire AC will register and pay entry fees for club members who wish to enter the Manchester Area and North Wales Leagues, on the understanding that club members commit to taking part in at least one round. This commitment is to avoid wasting both club and league money and time in providing race numbers for participants, who receive a number that they keep throughout each round of whichever league they are registered in. Please note: Any members who ask to be registered and don’t turn up to at least one round without informing us in advance of a reasonable reason why they could not do so will not be entered by the club for future league events. If you or your child are interested, and you/ they can commit to this understanding, please could you respond by email to: [email protected] by Monday September 21st 2026with the name(s) of those who wish to enter, and which league(s) you/ they wish to enter.

For members who feel that they cannot yet commit to running in the Manchester Area League, you can enter individual rounds yourself, while still paying the very reasonable whole series cost (Β£7 as of last season). This can be done via the SportSoft race entry website (entries not yet open). 

Please also note:

1. There is a separate entry procedure (details tbc) for Round 3 of the Manchester League at Sefton Park on November 28th, which is combined with the British Athletics Cross Challenge. If there are separate fees to enter the League and the Challenge on that day, the club will only pay the league entry fee.

2. North Wales and Manchester League fixtures clash on three dates, shown below.

3. The North Wales League website is a little out of date; best check their Facebook page for more regular updates.If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Club Cross Country Secretary, Dave Alexander by selecting β€œCross country officer” from the Contact page of the club website.

SOAR VESTS FOR SALE

There are just 2 men’s Soar race vests left in stock. One size Medium (37-39”) and one size XL (41-43”). The cost is Β£75 (usually Β£85) and free shipping. If anyone is interested please contact Sarah Hibbert at: treasurerwestcheshireac@gmail.com

THE WEEK AHEAD…

Friday, September 4: Deestriders Off Road four miles multi terrain race, at Rowleys Drive, Shotton: deestriders.niftyentries.com

Saturday, September 5: Halewood Memory Lane 5k (10.30am start): https://www.knowsley-harriers.com/halewood-5k

Sunday, September 6: Women’s 5k (9.30am start) and 10k (10.30am start) Races being held at Sefton Park, Liverpool: https://www.btrliverpool.com/events/womens-10k-and-5k/

Sunday, September 6: Wigan 10k (10am start) and Family Mile (12.30pm): https://wigan10k.co.uk/

Tuesday, September 8: Wirral Multi Terrain Race, at Royden Park: https://wirralmultiterrain.niftyentries.com/

Wednesday, September 9: Wirral AC Open Track and Field Meeting for Under 10s, Under 12s, Under 14s, Under 16s, and Under 18s, (6-9pm) at Bebington Oval: https://meets.rosterathletics.com/public/competitions/details/about?id=29479

Friday, Saturday and Sunday, September 11, 12 and 13: British Masters Track and Field Championships, Derby: https://bmaf.opentrack.run/en-gb/x/2026/GBR/bmaf-otfc/

Saturday, September 12: North West and Cheshire Road Relay Championships, at Heaton Park, Manchester (10.30am start): https://nwroadrelays.niftyentries.com/North-West-Road-Relays

Sunday, September 13: Cheshire Track and Field Grand Prix, at Ellesmere Port Sports Village: https://meets.rosterathletics.com/public/competitions/details/about?id=29271

Sunday, September 13: Trafford AC Medal Meeting: https://www.traffordac.co.uk/php/index.php?script=newsFull.php&news_id=1526

Good luck to all West Cheshire AC athletes and officials! 

WREXHAM AC FINAL FLING OPEN THROWS MEETING

Entries are now being accepted for the Final Fling Open Throws Meeting taking place at Wrexham on Saturday and Sunday, September 26 and 27. Under 10s, Under 12s, Under 14s, Under 16s and Under 18s on Saturday; and Under 20s, Seniors and Veterans on Sunday.

Online entries by email to: [email protected]

WIRRAL MULTI-TERRAIN RACE SERIES

The dates and venues for this year’s Wirral Multi Terrain Race Series are: September 8, Royden Park; September 15, Harrison Drive, Wallasey; September 22, Arrowe Park, Birkenhead.

DEESTRIDERS OFF ROAD GRAND PRIX SERIES

Deestriders are inviting entries for their final Off Road four miles multi terrain race taking place at Rowleys Drive, Shotton, on Friday, September 4. The entry link is: deestriders.niftyentries.com

DATES FOR THE DIARY…

Active Leisure Events fixtures for 2026/27 are:

Sunday, 11th October 2026 – Chester Marathon

Sunday, 28th February 2027 – Wrexham Half Marathon

Sunday, 14th March 2027 – Chester 10k

Sunday, 16th May 2027 – Chester Half Marathon

Sunday, 19th September 2027 – Wrexham 10k

PLEASE HELP TO STAY IN TOUCH
We welcome contributions to your club newsletter from club members. They can be about events that you have taken part in, impending marriages, additions to the family, or anything club-related that other members may be interested in. Feel free to contact Dennis with any news at: [email protected]

Press Report: Brian is Made of Wright Stuff

by Dennis Wall

ATHLETICS

BRIAN WRIGHT grabbed glory in Northern Ireland on Sunday.

The West Cheshire Athletic Club chairman won his over-70 age category prize at the Antrim Coast Half Marathon with a veteran personal best time of 1:39:02.

Brian improved his club record for the 13.1 miles distance by more than three minutes and the performance places him in the top 25 UK ranking list for the over 70 age group.

JACK GANNON clocked 35:06 for 12th position and seventh place in his 20-39 age group at the Birchwood 10k Road Race. 

FATHER and son, Graham and Scott Wells, celebrated impressive performances at the latest Trafford AC Open Track and Field Meeting.

Graham, running in the over-50 age group, won his 3,000m heat in a time of 10:01.53, and Scott rounded the under 18 men’s 800m in a new personal best time of 2:00:07.

JOSEPH MORRISON won the Senior Men’s one mile race on Friday night, at the North Wales Endurance Open Meeting.

Joseph clocked 4:16.61 to finish ahead of his brother, Paul, who posted 4:44.66 at the fixture held at Deeside Stadium, Connah’s Quay.

Sarah Hunter rounded the Female Masters International 3,000m at the same fixture in a new personal best time of 10:31.03 for victory in her over-35 age group and third position overall.

Luke Pearson achieved 10:09.02 for second spot in the senior men’s 3,000m, while Beth Jones clocked a new personal best of 2:51.61 in the under 14 girls 800m.

WEST CHESHIRE AC is looking for helpers to set up the course and marshal at the opening round of the Wirral Multi Terrain League Race Series being held at Wirral Country Park, Thurstaston, on Tuesday, September 1 (7pm race start). Anyone who can help should email Mike Lamb ASAP at: [email protected]

FIXTURES this weekend include the Mid Cheshire Summer 5k Race, at Kingsley, on Friday; the final round of the Northern Track and Field League at Trafford on Sunday, a Trafford AC Medal Meeting on Monday, and the Cilcain Mountain Race, on Monday.

ENTRIES are now being accepted for the final round of the Cheshire Track and Field Grand Prix being held at Ellesmere Port Sports Village, on Sunday, September 13. The online entry link is: https://meets.rosterathletics.com/public/competitions/details/about?id=29271

WIRRAL AC are organising an Open Track and Field Meeting for Under 10s, Under 12s, Under 14s, Under 16s, and Under 18s on Wednesday, September 16 (6-9pm) at Bebington Oval. Further details: https://meets.rosterathletics.com/public/competitions/details/about?id=29479

WCAC Endurance League

Still no change in the women’s top 3 at the end of July. Emma is clear of Anest, with Joy one point behind in 3rd. Paul is a point clear of Andrew in the men’s tables, with Jeff clear in 3rd.

See the Races page for full tables. Please address any queries to [email protected].

WCAC News #582 21-8-2026

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Many happy returns to the following club members who celebrate their birthdays this week:

Andrew Clague, Debra Bemand, Zack Kempton.

PLEASE PLAY A PART IN DRIVING YOUR CLUB FORWARD…

Are you interested in athletics and would you like to help shape your club for the future? West Cheshire AC is looking for new Committee members, and this is the ideal opportunity for you to have your input and help bring new initiatives and drive the club forward. In particular we are looking for a Chairperson to take over from November 2026, but new candidates for all roles are always welcome. The About Us page of the club website gives a breakdown of current club committee members and their roles. So if you want to find out more, please drop us a line on: [email protected] and let us know if you have a specific area of interest or expertise you feel would be useful or if you simply want to join the Committee.

SATURDAY MORNING TRAINING IS ON

Please note that the run-jump-throw training session tomorrow (Saturday, 22nd August), between 10am and 12 noon, at Ellesmere Port Sports Village Athletics Track is on.

UNDER 14s TRAINING SESSIONS PAUSED IN AUGUST…

Unfortunately, Tuesday and Thursday Under 14s training sessions will be cancelled until 1st September due to a lack of coach availability and support during the holiday period.

But the Under 10s and Under 12s Training Sessions will continue at the EPSV track as normal on Tuesdays (6pm-7.30pm).
Saturday morning sessions will continue as normal for Under 10s, Under 12s, and Under 14s, and we encourage athletes to attend where possible to keep active over the break.
Thank you for your understanding.
If you’re wanting to help out at Club Training Sessions please email: [email protected]

ROAD RELAY RACES…

It’s Autumn Road Relay season again. Please let Ellie Robinson know your availability by the end of August at the latest if you’d like to be on a team.

You have 2 opportunities to race – please see the links for details of distances and race start times. You must be 1st claim.

Saturday 12th September at Heaton Park for the Cheshire Champs.Β (Women 3 per team, Men 4 per team) N.B. you must have Cheshire eligibility by birth or residence for this one. Event link is here.

Sunday 20th September at Silksworth, Sunderland for the Northern Athletics ChampsΒ – no Cheshire requirement for this one. (Women 4 per team, Men 6 per team). Entry link is here.

Ellie will be doing the team entries and the club is paying the entry fees. Always great fun team events. Ellie’s email address is: [email protected]

FIRST STEP INTO COACHING…

The new Assistant Coach and Sessional Coach qualifications are coming soon as part of England Athletics’ refreshed coaching pathway.Developed in response to feedback from coaches and clubs through the Coaching Review, the new pathway has been designed to create clearer and more accessible routes into coaching, while helping clubs build capacity within their coaching workforce. As part of this transition, the current Leading Athletics and Coaching Assistant qualifications will cease delivery and be replaced by the new Assistant Coach and Sessional Coach qualifications.

More details can be found here.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Well done to all our club members who competed at recent fixtures. Read more at: https://www.westcheshireac.co.uk/2026/08/18/press-report-records-fall-at-ellesmere-port-5k/

SOAR VESTS FOR SALE

There are just 2 men’s Soar race vests left in stock. One size Medium (37-39”) and one size XL (41-43”). The cost is Β£75 (usually Β£85) and free shipping. If anyone is interested please contact Sarah Hibbert at: [email protected]

THE WEEK AHEAD…

Friday, August 21: North Wales Endurance Running, Deeside Stadium, Connah’s Quay: https://www.welshathletics.org/en/competition/current/view/north-wales-endurance-open-2

Saturday and Sunday, August 22 and 23: England Athletics Under 16 and Under 18 Combined Events Championships, at Bedford: https://www.englandathletics.org/competitions-and-events/competition/u18-and-u16-combined-events-and-senior-para-championshipschampionships/

Saturday, August 22: Island Games and Menai Track and Field Open, Treborth Track, Bangor: https://www.welshathletics.org/en/competition/current/view/island-games-menai-track-field-open

Sunday, August 23: Birchwood 10k Road Race, near Warrington: https://spectrumstriders.niftyentries.com/Birchwood-10K-2026

Tuesday, August 25: Lyme Park Midsummer Trail 5k, Disley, Stockport: https://run-northwest.niftyentries.com/Lyme-Midsummer-Trail-10K-2026

Wednesday, August 26: Wirral Seaside 5k Race, Leasowe: https://seasideruns.niftyentries.com/Seaside-Race-6-2026

Friday, August 28: Mid Cheshire Summer 5k, Kingsley: https://runcheshire.niftyentries.com/Mid-Cheshire-5k-Summer-2026

Good luck to all West Cheshire AC athletes and officials! 

CHESHIRE TRACK & FIELD GRAND PRIX AT EPSV

Entries are now being accepted for the final round of the Cheshire Track and Field Grand Prix being held at Ellesmere Port Sports Village, on Sunday, September 13. The online entry link is: https://meets.rosterathletics.com/public/competitions/details/about?id=29271

WREXHAM AC FINAL FLING OPEN THROWS MEETING

Entries are now being accepted for the Final Fling Open Throws Meeting taking place at Wrexham on Saturday and Sunday, September 26 and 27. Under 10s, Under 12s, Under 14s, Under 16s and Under 18s on Saturday; and Under 20s, Seniors and Veterans on Sunday.

Online entries by email to: [email protected]

WIRRAL AC OPEN TRACK AND FIELD EVENING MEETING

Wirral AC are organising an Open Track and Field Meeting for Under 10s, Under 12s, Under 14s, Under 16s, and Under 18s on Wednesday, September 16 (6-9pm) at Bebington Oval. Further details: https://meets.rosterathletics.com/public/competitions/details/about?id=29479

WIRRAL MULTI-TERRAIN RACE SERIES

The dates and venues for this year’s Wirral Multi Terrain Race Series are: September 1, Wirral Country Park, Thurstaston; September 8, Royden Park; September 15, Harrison Drive, Wallasey; September 22, Arrowe Park, Birkenhead. The online entry page is: https://wirralmultiterrain.niftyentries.com/Wirral-Multi-Terrain-Series-2026

DEESTRIDERS OFF ROAD GRAND PRIX SERIES

Deestriders are inviting entries for their final Off Road four miles multi terrain race taking place at Rowleys Drive, Shotton, on Friday, September 4. The entry link is: deestriders.niftyentries.com

CILCAIN MOUNTAIN RACE

Entries are now being accepted for the Cilcain Mountain Race (7.4km, 380m) being held on Monday 31st August.
Incorporating the Welsh Athletics Senior (Short) Inter-Regional Mountain Running Championships & North Wales Regional Championships (enter at least 7 days prior to race to allow your WA affiliation to be checked).
1pm Start from St.Mary’s Church, Cilcain Show, Clwydian Range, North Wales. No Entries on day. Registration from 10am (U7-U15 Junior races – free entry. Noon start behind showground).

The online entry link is: https://racesignup.co.uk/55th-cilcain-mountain-race?fbclid=IwY2xjawSyED9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETBwbExyNkJJTm8zSUJVYWd3c3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHkdOUVYzCUih7rO-0msuqXyftG2v6jCjWu1bJ9wby_EMFVqcWLpiAL4iqxbn_aem_npcmP-klAMEjbnSwYFh73Q

DATES FOR THE DIARY…

Active Leisure Events fixtures for 2026/27 are:

Sunday, 11th October 2026 – Chester Marathon

Sunday, 28th February 2027 – Wrexham Half Marathon

Sunday, 14th March 2027 – Chester 10k

Sunday, 16th May 2027 – Chester Half Marathon

Sunday, 19th September 2027 – Wrexham 10k

PLEASE HELP TO STAY IN TOUCH
We welcome contributions to your club newsletter from club members. They can be about events that you have taken part in, impending marriages, additions to the family, or anything club-related that other members may be interested in. Feel free to contact Dennis with any news at: [email protected]

Press Report: Records fall at Ellesmere Port 5k

SARAH HUNTER celebrated a new age group club record at the Ellesmere Port 5k Road Race.

The West Cheshire Athletic Club runner clocked 17:59 around the Capenhurst course to slice five seconds off her over-35 women’s 5k record time set at Shrewsbury last month and win her age group prize at Capenhurst.

Sarah, who finished fourth lady overall at Capenhurst, is now just nine seconds adrift of the overall women’s 5k club record set by Joanne Bailey in 2001.

Joy Hickman continued her rich vein of form by posting 21:02 to knock 10 seconds off the over 60 women’s 5k club record which she set at the same fixture last year and the time is the best any over-50 or older woman has recorded whilst a member of West Cheshire.

Joy won the over-60 age group prize, while Rosie Grimsditch clocked 21:39, the first 5k time in the new under 14 age group since April.

Father and son, Graham (fourth over-50 man) and Scott Wells (10th under 20 man), were first and second home for West Cheshire at Capenhurst with times of 17:23 and 17:25 respectively.

Finlay Stewart clocked 17:47 for 14th spot in his under 20 age group and Ellis Hancock finished with a time of 19:40 for 22nd place in the under 20 age category.

Neil Hershaw posted 19:36 for third position in his over-60 age group, while Jeff Gifford was sixth in the over-60 age category with 20:04.

Emma Nutt secured 14th place in the senior ladies age group with a time of 20:49.

George Grimsditch finished 24th in his under 20 age group, clocking 21:22, and Sallyann Harper was fourth in her over 50 age category with a time of 23:28.

Luke Burgess (Deeside AAC) won the race in 14:46, and Eden O’Dea (Deeside AAC) won the women’s race in 16:46.

FIXTURES this weekend include the North Wales Endurance Open Meeting at Deeside Stadium, Connah’s Quay, on Friday; the England Athletics Under 16 and Under 18 Combined Events Championships, at Bedford, on Saturday and Sunday; the Island Games and Menai Track and Field Open, on Saturday; and the Birchwood 10k Road Race, near Warrington, on Sunday.

ENTRIES are now being accepted for the final round of the Cheshire Track and Field Grand Prix being held at Ellesmere Port Sports Village, on Sunday, September 13. The online entry link is: https://meets.rosterathletics.com/public/competitions/details/about?id=29271

ENTRIES are now being accepted for the Final Fling Open Throws Meeting taking place at Wrexham on Saturday and Sunday, September 26 and 27. Under 10s, Under 12s, Under 14s, Under 16s and Under 18s on Saturday; and Under 20s, Seniors and Veterans on Sunday.

Online entries by email to: [email protected]

ENTRIES are being accepted for the Blackburn Harriers Under 10s and Under 12s Open Quadrathlon Competition being held on August 19. This is a simplistic 4 events for Under 12 athletes only to get a competition opportunity. It is a short 2 1/2 hours event where everyone will be able to partake in all 4 events with medals available for the top 3 in each event as well as the overall Quadrathlon winner. More details and entry link: https://meets.rosterathletics.com/public/competitions/details/about?id=29493

WIRRAL AC are organising an Open Track and Field Meeting for Under 10s, Under 12s, Under 14s, Under 16s, and Under 18s on Wednesday, September 16 (6-9pm) at Bebington Oval. Further details: https://meets.rosterathletics.com/public/competitions/details/about?id=29479

THE dates and venues for this year’s Wirral Multi Terrain Race Series are: September 1, Wirral Country Park, Thurstaston; September 8, Royden Park; September 15, Harrison Drive, Wallasey; September 22, Arrowe Park, Birkenhead. The online entry page is: https://wirralmultiterrain.niftyentries.com/Wirral-Multi-Terrain-Series-2026

DEESTRIDERS are inviting entries for their Off Road four miles multi terrain race taking place at Rowleys Drive, Shotton, on Friday, September 4. The entry link is: deestriders.niftyentries.com

FIXTURES for the 2026-27 Borders Road Running League are: Race 1 β€“ 04/10/2026 – Wrecsam Tri at Llandegla; Race 2 β€“ 01/11/2026 – Birkenhead; Race 3 β€“ 06/12/2025 – Eryri at Trac Mon; Race 4 β€“ 31/01/2027 – West Cheshire (or UTS); Race 5 β€“ 28/02/2027 – UTS (or West Cheshire); Race 6 β€“ 21/03/2027 – Deeside AC or Wrexham AC; Relay & Presentation night – Wednesday 5th May or 12th – Deeside AC or Wrexham AC.

FIXTURES for the 2026-27 Manchester Area Cross Country League have been announced.

The first round will be held on October 10, at Woodbank Park, Stockport; and other fixtures will take place on November 14 at Sherdley Park, St. Helens; November 28 at Sefton Park, Liverpool; January 16 at Tatton Park, Knutsford; and February 13 at Heaton Park, Manchester.

THE English Road Running Association will stage the 6 and 4 Stage Road Relays at Sutton Park, Birmingham, on Saturday, October 3, and the 12 and 6 Stage Road Relays, at Sutton Park, Birmingham, on Saturday, April 17.

THE English Cross Country Association Cross Country Relays, at Mansfield, Nottingham, will be held on Saturday, October 31, while the English Cross Country Association National Championships, will be held at Thoresby Park, Ollerton, Nottinghamshire, on Saturday, February 20, and the UK Inter Counties Cross Country Championships and Cross Challenge Final, will be held at Nottingham, on Saturday, March 13.

THE 2026-27 Manchester Area Cross-country League fixtures will, provisionally, be held on October 10 at Woodbank Park, Stockport; November 14, at Sherdley Park, St. Helens; November 28, at Sefton Park, Liverpool; January 16, at Tatton Park, Knutsford; and on February 13, at Heaton Park, Manchester.

FURTHER details about West Cheshire Athletic Club can be found at: www.westcheshireac.co.uk

Press Report: Fab Four Break Records

ATHLETICS

by Dennis Wall

FOUR West Cheshire Athletic Club members are celebrating record-breaking performances.

Joy Hickman, Graham Wells, Sharon Stoll and Nia Manson all impressed at weekend fixtures held at Ellesmere Port Sports Village and Trafford.

Joy, who had improved her over-60 age group five miles record to 35:18 at Birkenhead Park last month, sliced 18 seconds off her one mile time set in April to clock 6:31.6 during Friday’s Helsby Track Night held at Ellesmere Port Sports Village.

Graham, who had produced an over-50 men’s 3,000m club record of 10:00.72 at Trafford, improved his time to 9:55.6 at Ellesmere Port Sports Village on Friday.

Sharon broke the over-55 women’s hammer club record by hitting a mark of 26.57m at Trafford on Sunday.

And Nia established a new mark for the under 16 girls 3,000m of 11:45.4 at Ellesmere Port Sports Village on Friday night.

Scott Wells rounded the under 18 men’s 800m at the Trafford Grand Prix Meeting in a new personal best time of 2:00.46, and Alan Littler, preparing for the British Masters Championships, clocked a new over 35 men’s personal best of 2:05.31.

Joseph Morrison posted 1:48:62 in the men’s 800m, while Dan Walker clocked 1:57.98, and Paul Morrison rounded the 800m in 2:03.12.

Lewis Morris registered 4:00.17 in the under 18 men’s 1500m; Kara Stoll powered her way to 44.24m in the under 20 women’s hammer, while Danielle Erskine hit 25.35m in the senior women’s javelin and her mum, Debra, achieved 24.09m in the over-60 women’s hammer.

Phoebe Hessey celebrated new under 16 girls personal bests in the 100m (13.57) and 200m (28.37), while Saskia Keresturova achieved new under 14 girls bests in the javelin (23.05m) and long jump (4.45m), and Freya Whittaker achieved a new under 14 girls best in the 100m (14.56).

Josh Stirling blasted his way to a new under 18 men’s 400m best of 52.25, while Isla Lambert achieved an under 14 girls discus best of 19.17m.

Other West Cheshire members in action at Trafford on Sunday included Dylan Gledhill who posted 25.02 in the under 16 boys 200m and 42.87m in the javelin, and John Velasquez clocked 26.59 in the under 16 boys 200m and 42.57 in the 300m.

ENTRIES are now being accepted for the final round of the Cheshire Track and Field Grand Prix being held at Ellesmere Port Sports Village, on Sunday, September 13. The online entry link is: https://meets.rosterathletics.com/public/competitions/details/about?id=29271

ENTRIES are now being accepted for the Final Fling Open Throws Meeting taking place at Wrexham on Saturday and Sunday, September 26 and 27. Under 10s, Under 12s, Under 14s, Under 16s and Under 18s on Saturday; and Under 20s, Seniors and Veterans on Sunday.

Online entries by email to: [email protected]

ENTRIES are being accepted for the Blackburn Harriers Under 10s and Under 12s Open Quadrathlon Competition being held on August 19. This is a simplistic 4 events for Under 12 athletes only to get a competition opportunity. It is a short 2 1/2 hours event where everyone will be able to partake in all 4 events with medals available for the top 3 in each event as well as the overall Quadrathlon winner. More details and entry link: https://meets.rosterathletics.com/public/competitions/details/about?id=29493

WIRRAL AC are organising an Open Track and Field Meeting for Under 10s, Under 12s, Under 14s, Under 16s, and Under 18s on Wednesday, September 16 (6-9pm) at Bebington Oval. Further details: https://meets.rosterathletics.com/public/competitions/details/about?id=29479

Press Report: Records Broken at Oval

ATHLETICS
by Dennis Wall

SIX West Cheshire club records were broken at the final round of the Youth Development Track and Field League.

Dan Crosby, Jayden Clarke, Dylan Gledhill, Emily Hamilton, and the under 16 boys 4x300m relay team of Kade Harris, Jayden Walls, Louis Grimes and Dylan Gledhill all celebrated success at Bebington Oval.

Dan cleared 1.80m in the under 16 boys high jump to improve the previous best mark by five centimetres, while Jayden improved the under 14 boys high jump (1.55m) and shot put (9.57m) records by 10cms and 4cms respectively.

Dylan powered his way to an under 16 boys 300m club record time of 38.6 seconds, and Emily hit a new under 14 girls discus record mark of 22.87m.

The under 16 boys relay team of Kade, Jayden, Louis and Dylan then combined to clock a club record 4x300m relay time of 3:40.2, improving the previous best performance by seven seconds.

Faith Draisey cleared a winning height of 1.90m in the under 16 girls pole vault.

Amelia Owen grabbed glory in the under 16 girls shot put with a distance of 9.53m, and spun the discus to a winning mark of 18.82m in the B event.

Lucas Sawyer rounded the under 14 boys 1500m in a winning time of 4:31.9.

And Isaac Thompson won the under 14 boys B 80m hurdles in 16.3 seconds.

Other important points scorers included George Grimsditch, Finlay Stewart, Max Henderson, Sid March, Peter Zajac, Harry Deal, Lucy Caldwell, Amber Billington, Nia Manson, Rose Sheppard, Sophie Baker, Violet Thorne, James Wallis, Tristan Lee, Jack Webb, Jack McWilliams, Luke Gardner, Freya Whittaker, Isabelle Wilson, Harriet Oliver, Sakia Keresturova, Beth Jones, Rosie Grimsditch, Merryn Thorne, Darcie Steele, Erin Cheetham, Maisy Roberts-Page, Alice Roberts-Page, and Freya Henderson.

MATCH RESULT: 1 Liverpool Harriers & AC 611 points; 2 Preston Harriers 505; 3 Wirral AC 473; 4 Sale Harriers Manchester 461; 5 Blackburn Harriers & AC 417; 6 West Cheshire AC 398.

OVERALL FINAL STANDINGS: 1 Liverpool Harriers & AC 24 league points (2461 match points); 2 Sale Harriers Manchester 17 (2048.5); 3 Wirral AC 16 (2056.5); 4 Preston Harriers 14 (1949); 5 Blackburn Harriers & AC 9 (1725); 6 West Cheshire 4 (1597).

LEWIS MORRIS clocked a winning time of 15:02 at the Wirral Seaside 5k Race held at Leasowe, just 14 seconds adrift of the course record.

Other West Cheshire finishers included Matthew Douglass (16:19), Sam Oliver (16:32), and Paul Morrison (17:04).

JOY HICKMAN won the over 60 age group award at the Birkenhead Park Five Miles Road Race after posting a time of 35:18.

FIVE West Cheshire officials contributed towards the success of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Sarah Hibbert, Alan Morris, Tim Palmer, Brian Wright and Dave Gough, all performed various roles during the athletics competition held at the Scotstoun Stadium.

FIXTURES this weekend include the British Milers Club Meeting at Bury, on Saturday, and a Trafford AC Track and Field Medal Meeting, at Longford Park Stadium, on Sunday.

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