5th March 2011

Essex were well represented in the Inter-Counties cross country championships at Cofton Park, Birmingham on March 5th.

Jessica Judd

There were a number of superb performances and a class run came from the in form 16-year old Jesicca Judd who was in magnificent form, running from the front of her Under-17 5,000 metres race she crossed the line to the cheers of the large crowd with 55sec. to spare from her nearest rival.

The senior men saw a star run come from young Adam Hickey, running against his more senior opponents he gave an excellent account of himself to finish 11th.

Sophie Riches (red vest) - concentration at the start of her Under-15 race



J Fitsall did well with a fine 15th in the Under-17 men, followed closely by his team colleague A Short 18th.

Gemma Kersey displayed good form in the Under-20 women in 12th place. In the Under-13 girls Khai Mhlianga was the first Essex scorer in her first Inter-Counties race, in a good 30th place.

All the athletes who, once again, represented Essex at these championships did themselves proud. Team Managers John Hyland and Keith Bottjer would like to thank athletes, parents and coaches for their support.

The atmosphere was brilliant and it was great to see the legends of the past Eamon Martin and Mel Batty supporting their County's athletes.  Essex team positions:  Senior women 12th, Under-20 women 5th, Under-17 women 6th, Under-15 girls 5th, Under-13 girls 6th.  Under-20 men 21st, Under 17 men 7th, Under-15 boys 24th, Under 13 boys 4th.

Robyn Matson - fine run in senior womens race

Jessica Judd impressive run away win in Under-17 women's race

The senior women's race saw the reliable Faye Fullerton produce an excellent run in 16th place. In the Under-15 girls,

Sophie Riches dug deep to come home strongly in 6th position.

Likewise George Elliott in the Under-13 boys had the misfortune, along with his team colleagues, of being held up at the start but composed himself to finish a superb 8th.