The eagerly anticipated first Salford Cross Country League race took place at Bolton Road on Saturday. The conditions were perfect for a fast race and it was the Prep III and IV boys race that launched the season. There are always stories to be told in this particular competition and this year was to be no different.

Due to heavy traffic Harrison missed the start of the race and had to start from in the car park. This meant that he had to race across the fields to get to the race as the race was just about to set off! Much to his credit, this did not deter Harrison and his tenacity and commitment is to be commended and in the next event he can expect to finish much higher up the leader board. Maybe not quite as high as the Barooahs, who excelled last year in the event and have continued that form and confidence into the first race of the new season. Sebastian finished in the certificates with an impressive 17th place, but it was brother Luca who stole the show with an outstanding run to claim 7th spot. With debutants Jacob and Nathan also completing the run, the U9s team can go into the next run with renewed anticipation and expectation.

The Prep III and IV girls race went off without any drama and it was MIa who took the Bridgewater honours with a very good run (61) just pipping team mates Lucy (76) and Abigail (67). Unfortunately, with only three runners the team could not pick up points as there needs to be a minimum of four runners to count for league points. Abigail, Lucy and Mia will be hoping more girls from the U9s will be at the next race to help them collect points for Bridgewater.

In the Prep V and VI races, each team had enough runners to be able to gain team points as well as individual points. Tobias led the boys home in an excellent 39th position, whilst Archie turned up to run alongside brother Thomas for moral support and additional fitness work. A delightful debut performance from Bhargav completed a solid team performance from the U11 boys.

In the final race of the day, the U11 girls took to the course. A special mention must go to Jessica (24) and Florence (60) who both ran for school and the went straight back to Bridgewater to act as guides on Open Day.  Yasmeen (29) and Anya (34) brought the team home in what should be quite a high position overall and the girls can be very proud of their performances.

The next event is in two weeks time on Saturday 17th November at 9.15am at Buile Hill Park, Salford. We have a very loyal group of runners and parents at these events and it is very much appreciated. There is no better way to start the weekend and it would be brilliant to see even more parents and of course runners at the next event. Thank you to all who ran and I am looking forward to the next race already!