On Sunday 23rd August Birchfield Harriers proved why they are the leading athletics club in the UK, for more than just their action on the track and in the field.
The Club, led by the hard work of Stuart Paul, delivered a much needed and appreciated meeting for athletes at the Pingles Stadium.
The weather was hit and miss, with sun, rain and wind, but the performances were consistent. Established names from the UK athletics scene were present delivering some impressive performances in this difficult year.
In particular, Birchfield's athletes sparkled, including the UK 400mh hurdle leader Efe Okoro, who won both the 400mh and ran a pb to win the 400m flat. It was also great to see Danny Talbot back from injury, alongside Meghan Beesley, and the likes of Nathan Douglas competing, to name a few.
Craig Murch shone in the Men's hammer winning the first event and gaining Birchfield (as their male joker card) double points with his win. Birchfield went on to win the fun team battle overall, but there were good showings from the TVH, Coventry Godiva and the Nuneaton Nomads athletes.
More highlights came with good performances from hepthatlon star Niamh Emerson. She had a top day with a windy 200m personal best and had an impressive shot put and javelin.
The 400m ladies didn't disappoint either with more good running in the tough windy conditions. Yasmin Liverpool and Amy Hillyard had a good battle, with Liverpool coming out on top with a 52.21s run, both women running pb's.
President Katharine Merry, who led the commentray team, shared her thoughts:
"Maybe edging the performance of the day for me though was Lucy Matthews. Running 13.25s to break the UK U17 100mh record held by Sally Gunnell. It really was a good day. Thank you to all at my club and everyone involved at the Pingles Stadium, and especially Nick Wilson and his family from Nuneaton."
Nuneaton Harriers have been great this summer providing opportunities for athletes in this difficult year, many of whom will travel to Manchester soon for the British Championships.
Our thanks also go to all the volunteers and officials, and all those that supported the meeting. It was lovely to have Joanna Coates,UKA's new CEO with us supporting the meeting and she enjoyed her first track and field meeting in her new role.
Birchfield Harriers yet again showed how well it can host and a meeting and proved why, as a club and a region, we are all very much looking forward to hosting the 2022 Commonwealth Games. The next outing for many of these athletes will be the British Championships in Manchester next month.