Stockport Harriers’ ladies have welcomed the start of the Cross Country season, this year the first race was held at Heaton Park in Manchester, the weather as per season was unpredictably windy and cold however there was some sunshine to welcome the runners around.
The Women’s team this year headed by Coach Maureen Wilkins was exceptionally strong with the wonderful return of Jess Coulson to motivate the ladies and support them through the tough conditions. Stockport Ladies worked fantastically well together, they battled through the tough and challenging 9.5K course, working through the field of competitors and physically giving every last bit of energy to finish strong ahead of the other clubs.
The race was won by an outstanding performance from Jess Coulson in 31 minutes followed by Carley Davies in 35.12, hot on her heals was Helen Walch who has come back from injury and had a fantastic season with 36.35, Sarah Aylmer who finished strongly and got a personal best for that course in 37.24, Sam Thomas 38.12, Jayne Lawton 38.13 and Helen Garner 39.24.Stockport Ladies then had a host of personal bests for Alexis Dinsmoor 42.15, Maureen Wilkins 42.29, Vicky Barratt 42.44, Gillian Doolan 43.19, Janet Leigh 46.29, Andrea Minshall 46.41 and Hilary West 47.23.
Maureen Wilkins who motivated her team around and drove them forward through the field of experienced club runners. This race was a first ever cross country event for a number of the ladies team, they ran superbly and we all felt incredibly proud of everyone’s performance.
Well done ladies, bring on Sherdley Park, St. Helens on Sunday 14th November!