Wayne Leaves His Best To Last

By Brian Marantelli 29 September 2017

The last Victorian Cross Country League race for season 2017 took place at Woodlands Park, Greenvale, on 10^th September and resulted in a narrow but well deserved win to Wayne James. After an injury interrupted 2016 season Wayne was able to produce a full season of racing and his best run of the year to win the 3km sealed President’s handicap by ten seconds. The woodlands win was Wayne’s fifth with the VCCL and his first since 2013, also the President’s handicap. He now heads towards a VAL summer season with a sound base and promising form. Fraser Murray, having a quieter 2017, was second on handicaps and the winner of the Ted Paulin over 40’s sash. Julian Harris, threatening to win a race with good late form was inches behind Fraser in third place. Troy Atkins produced another consistent run for fourth place, marginally to the good of Adamo Triani and Ash Cowen. Ash Cowen was the fastest overall time with a run of 9:24 and Meg Deane was fastest of the girls with a run of 12:59.

The VCCL also entered teams in the AV 3.2km relays event around Princes Park on Saturday September 16^th. The men’s Division 2 team finished an excellent 8^th place in a field of 15 teams. The team of Ash Cowen, David Spence, Adam Coote, Matt Grant, Daniel Lawlor and Ian Burrows produced a fine effort against star studded opposition. The men’s over 50’s, Chris Moore, Wayne James and Leon Brooks, were 9^th in a competition of twenty one teams, another fine effort. Not to be out done the ladies division four team of Steph Spence, Irene James and Rachel Edwards were 7^th of seventeen. And finally the Women’s over 40’s team, Corina Kapusta, Martine Beer and Janine McKerron finished 6^th of twelve teams in a very tough grade.

The Victorian Cross Country League’s AGM will be conducted this year, once again, at the McKinnon Hotel on Sunday October 15th at 10am for a 10.30 start. It is important for members to attend and participate in the club’s plans for the next season or two. With the current increase of parkruns and fun runs sweeping through the running calendar the VCCL are keen to get input as to the best way forward. If unable to attend, please monitor the website for information on decisions and events.

---

Recent News