Newton Aycliffe runner Rachel Bennett (right) has been competing for Shildon Running Club over the last couple of weekends. On 7th February Rachel competed in the U13/15 Northern Championships in Sheffield where she went into the Championships as reigning U15 girls 60m Northern Champion and easily got through her heat in 8.03 seconds.
In the semi-final Rachel again eased to victory in 8.03 seconds setting up a real challenge for the final against an athlete ranked above her nationally. In the final, despite a valiant effort, the race went to form with Rachel having to settle for an excellent 2nd place in 8.02 seconds.
The following weekend on Sunday 14th Feb Rachel was running again in the U15 girls 200m and was hoping to build on her recent successes. In her heat Rachel sauntered through to the semi-finals winning in a time of 24.46 seconds. Her semi-final race turned out to be very competitive with Rachel showing superb fighting spirit narrowly finishing 2nd in an excellent 25.59 seconds which earned her a new PB and club record and a place in a scintillating final line up.
With further words of wisdom from her coach, Rachel went into the race in a confident mood and this showed as she put on a remarkable performance displaying both grit and a determination to succeed which earn herself 3rd place in 25.65 seconds and a bronze medal.
Rachel should be proud of her achievements over the past month, which have resulted in achieving a top 5 status in her event in the UK rankings. The club, their coach and parents are proud of Rachel’s achievements and a special thanks to Darren Hirst for his commitment dedication and enthusiasm towards all runners within the Sprint Squad.
