Most of the silverware in the woods in Camberley today ,was rushed back to London along the M3, In a daring x-country raid by a minibus full of Herne hill harrier athletes,when hearing of our intended arrival, most opposing athletes scarpered to fight another day. This was a serious x-country course, with a 70m very steep hill to negotiate.
In the u13g 2.5km race, Breagh Campbell taking an early lead and stretching away to win by 200m from arch rival Niamh BROWN, and was well supported by Izzy Lamport, and Catriona mc Sorley in 4th and 5th. A FANTASTIC EFFORT by the team earning them a silver cup for 1st overall team,and gold medals apiece, with Breagh getting an additional gold for her 1st place.
In the u15b 4km race, Fraser Cunningham lead the field a merry dance from the gun ,to gradually draw away from his field and win in decisive style by 10-15 secs, followed in by Max Ferrari who was 5th with 50m to run, but managed a sudden change of gear to get up on the line for second place. James Bates also finished strongly for 6th place, pipping our own Andrzej Fanner just a metre from the line. Fraser winning gold medal, Max a silver, and the team winning a silver cup for winning team to keep for a year, and all 4 boys a personal gold medal.
In the u13b, 3km race, Herne Hill were to release their secret weapon, battle hardened with a year or so experience under his belt, young Oliver Fox was about to run the race of his life. As the gun exposed,it appeared that no runner wanted to lead the pack, up stepped Oliver to head the field, he held a 10-15 m lead after the small lap, but after appearing at the top of the hill for the 2nd lap was 50m clear. It was his first win in HHH colours and was a sight to remember. Gold AGAIN!.
In the u11g race 2km: Bozena Fanner led at a fast early pace ,from team mate Tattiana Davies in 2nd. At the finish Bozena won by 40-50m ,with Tattiana fading to finish 6th. Another great effort for an athlete with a great future ahead. Gold again! In the u9g race 1.5km: Marissa Fanner tracked the leading group, and bravely fought to finish 3rd for a bronze medal.
One for you anoraks out there :When ,where and what was the last time 3 athletes from the same family got a medal for HHH in the same meeting ? 1899 ?? A VERY TALENTED FAMILY INDEED! Special mention to Francesca, Dylan, Thomas,and Moa, who also ran well.
Dave Ferrari.