Flying start for YAL team.

Monday 4 May 2009

Cardiff's National Young Athletes' League team made a flying start to the 2009 season by dominating the opening match in Plymouth on Sunday, 3rd May. With individual wins and personal bests coming thick and fast, Cardiff amassed 396 points to score a resounding win by 92 points over second placed City of Plymouth. With the second round match at its home stadium, the team is on track to achieve its target of a first time return to the Premier Division.

Athletes of the match were Majidah Harb (U17 girls) who competed in the 3000m, 1500m, 4x100m relay and 4x300m relay and Alex Coomber (U17 boys) who competed in the 800m, 100m, javelin and 4x400m relay. Notable personal bests were set by:

Alex Coomber: 800m (2.05.3); Deon Garrison: Discus (18.69m) & Javelin (25.79m); Kieran Harris: 1500m (5.54.2); Tom Johnson: 800m (2.47.3); Luke Harry: 200m (30.9); Aled Griffiths: 200m (32.9); Sam Maybank: 100m (17.9).

Sam Cogan: 300m (42.0); Ffion Bodilly: High Jump (1.55m); Megan Thomas: 300mH (53.0); Lucy Daly: Pole Vault (2.40m); Carys Dawe: Shot Put (6.77m); Kate Seary: High Jump (1.33m); Bethan Trigg: 70mH (13.4); Ffion Collins: 70mH (13.8); Anna Lawson: 1200m (4.42); Naomi Pearce: 75m (13.0).

Team Managers Andrew Seary, Helen Falsini and Julie Jones said, " Despite having a small team for this first round match of the NATYAL, the athletes were truly outstanding, competing in at least three events each. Their commitment and determination secured a convincing win for the team which now puts Cardiff in a strong position in the division. Congratulations to all our athletes and a special thanks to parents who gave up their time to officiate and support the team. Well done!"

A report of the match can also be seen by going to Fixtures & Results>League Fixtures>McCain Young Athletes League.