On Wednesday 22nd September, Eastbourne Complex in Darlington provided the setting for Darlington Harrier’s 130 Year Anniversary Games. On a significant night for local sports, four of the Aycliffe Athletic Junior Section members competed in track events.
Mila ‘The Power’ Parnaby – U11 – 75m & 600m
One of our new runners, but has quickly established herself as a star in the making. Mila (aged 8) took to the track, stepping up an age group to take on the Under 11s. With a smile on her face and oozing confidence Mila stood on the start line for 75m sprint and held her own, keeping stride with the older competitors. Setting a respectable 14.01.
The 600m event, Mila came into her own and showed how much potential she has. With coaches instruction of “Mila, do what you do”, no more was needed to be said. Dropping the hammer on the final bend to pass another and take 2nd place (4th overall). With a fantastic time of 2.18.5 – well done.
Trinity ‘Diamond’ Donoghue – U11 – 75m & 600m
Trinity (aged 9) has recently started her competitive racing career, impressing in local XC events and park runs. Returning to the track, she quickly showed her ability and extra training to again step up and take on older competitors, showing a cool determination. For the 75m, Trinity exploded off the start line, crossing the finish line for a photo finish, taking joint 3rd overall 12.90.
600m, Trinity ran a perfectly controlled race, with an even pace for the first 400m, picking off competitors as she applied the pressure. With 200m to go she found 6th gear, and wound up to 100%, easily forcing herself into 3rd place (3rd overall). Time for the night was 2.18.3.
Charles ‘The Professor’ Clay – U11 – 75m
Long term member Charlotte ‘Charles’ has grown from strength to strength over the years. With coaches encouragement she entered into the 75m race.
Liking to do her talking on the track, she found herself in an all-boys heat. With a controlled approach she focused on the race and matched pace with the other runners for the full 75m. This was a fantastic achievement for Charlotte, facing a challenge and overcoming it. Proving how much ability she has. Time was 13.10 – 4th place.
Elizabeth ‘Quicksilver’ Clay – U13 – 100m
Running in different colours tonight, experienced Aycliffe Member Elizabeth took to the track for the 100m.
In her heat she found herself lining up against U15s and Seniors. With older competitors and fierce head wind, she was not fazed and continued to produce her blistering pace shown in this year’s competitions.
Making a great start out the blocks, and flying down the straight, Elizabeth took 3rd place in the race and 1st overall for the U13. With tough conditions 14.30, was welcomed.
Great night for the club and congratulations to Mark Tallon and DH for organising and celebrating 130 years.
Photo – Elizabeth, Mila, Charles, Trinity