Stronger NJL team
Tuesday 31 May 2011
After a last minute change of venue, the second round of the National Junior League took place on Monday, 29 May, and Cardiff produced a much improved performance, finishing fourth on the day.
Amongst some excellent performances, Elliot Slade, only 16, (pictured) demonstrated further progress with another personal best and club record in the 800m (1:54.50). He also improved his 1500m time.
It was with relief that the team set off from Cardiff to make its way to Birmingham. The meeting point had to be switched because of the cricket at Sophia Gardens and the venue was changed from Alexander Stadium to Wyndley due to uncertainties over the certification of the track being completed in time. Only one athlete and one track judge were mislaid in the melee but they were soon re-united with the rest of the party.
The temperature was a few degrees below the norm for late May and the wind was decidedly blustery on occasions, although it did help towards a few PB's in the 100m races! It was also responsible for the cancellation of the Boys' Pole Vault competition after the uprights became parallel bars following one particularly impressive gust. This was very disappointing for the athletes after travelling all that way to compete, but Health and Safety must prevail in these circumstances.
In spite of the weather, it was an enjoyable day for the athletes, their supporters and the team managers alike.
Many PB's were set during the day, including 2 athletes who managed to bag a brace of them, Elliot Slade (800m & 1500m) and Ayla Phillips (Hammer and Shot). It was great to see most events being covered this time after the gaping holes of the first match. All the athletes seemed to enjoy the day and most have indicated their intention to compete in the next round at Derby on 10th July. This will be an early start to ensure the team arrives in plenty of time to warm up for the first events, but Debbie and Julie are hoping a bacon or sausage McMuffin on the way may be too tempting to refuse!
Cardiff's individual event winners were as follows:
Jamaul Whyte (100m B); Elliot Slade (800m A); Alex Coomber (800m B); Ryan Leonard (Discus B).
Lauren Regan (400m B); Clare Harwood (3000m B); Megan Thomas (400mH B).
The match result was:
1. Birchfield H 535
2. West Wales 522
3. Notts AC 422
4. Cardiff AAC 417
5. Cannock & Staffs 402
6. Mansfield 380
7. Rugby & Northants 362
8. Charnwood AC 210
To view the full results click on RESULTS.