Bronzed In The Sun - BMAF XC Championships, Bath (25/03/2012)

A warm sunny afternoon on the top of a hill outside Bath saw a double bronze medal haul for the Masters. Jeff Taylor, Team Manager and “Juggling Artiste” extraordinaire was moving names up and down in his mind within the team races in order to balance our best chances.

Ray Stanier, Dean Hill, Paul Rogers, Seb Shepley, Malcolm Eustace, Peter Rigler & Alan Grice were those that toed the start line. Aaron Keene was expected from the entry list but sadly did not make the race. 

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The course for the “big boys” race was three large laps. Not a problem save some of the team had neglected to see the loop that was added from that run by the very old stagers and women! The underfoot conditions were good to firm. The course is also used as an “eventing course” through the year so the odd horse hoof print was to be found. It was flat but for a gradual climb up to the finishing straight.

Seb Shepley (M40) was our lead runner in 25th place overall. Malcolm Eustace (M50) urged on by two maniacs from the club (Chris & Jeff) was 29th. Dean Hill 37th, Paul Rogers 49th, Ray Stanier 95th, Peter Rigler 108th & Alan Grice 137th completed the contingent. Nice to see Andy Wilton, one time Tipton Harrier, now running for Staffordshire Moorlands still competitive in his age group.

In the championships Malcolm got a well earned Bronze medal in the M50 category. 

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He also helped the M45 Team to another Bronze. Well done Ray, Paul & Malcolm.

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We really should target this next year with Nigel Stirk breaking into the M40 ranks along with a few others. Seb will be in the M45 bracket by then along with Dave Payne & Bryan Mills.

Photographs & Results