Buxton athletes impress against cream of county schools

The venue and courses provided a wonderful opportunity for all the athletes to represent their County team and compete against some of the best talent in the country, with the added opportunity to qualify for a much coveted English Schools vest.

Eight Buxton Athletic Club juniors qualified for the Championships representing three different regions.

First up to take on the challenge in the Intermediate Girls race was Lucy Bednall, representing Staffordshire.

Fresh from winning her age category at the European Duathlon Championships Lucy put in a strong performance to finish in 137th position.

The Intermediate Boys race saw Buxton AC runner Will Longden, of Chapel High School, finish in an outstanding 19th place with team mate Finn Grant finishing 94th, both boys representing Derbyshire and the team coming in an impressive seventh overall.

In the same race Buxton's Harry Bond, representing Staffordshire, worked hard to achieve a position of 262nd.

The Senior Girls race had two girls from Buxton Community School, representing Derbyshire.

Ellie Wilson had a fantastic run to come in 87th, while team mate Heather Wilshaw fought hard to come home in 271st. The team finished 10th overall.

Last up were the Senior Boys where Buxton runners Lucas Parker and Sam Soles, both representing Greater Manchester, both put in sterling performances to finish in 41st and 83rd respectively.

Lynne Pope, chairman of the English Schools Athletics Association said: “Everyone who completes their race should consider themselves a winner, knowing that they have been racing against the best in a major championships in the school competition calendar.

“I hope all the athletes feel at the end of their day, today has made a difference to them as a person and they continue to take pride in competing and giving their best.”