BAL season closer
After what must have been a tense afternoon for all, the British League Division One team manager Tony Bush, was pleased to report that the squad had achieved a ‘great escape’ having gone into the final match in sixth position – just one spot clear of the dreaded relegation zone!
After an all-day battle, with positions changing after every event, we finished fourth on the day, only five points behind second, and ended the season in fifth place in the League, and now ranked 13th in the UK. Enfield and Herne Hill were relegated.
Ollie Smith won the 400 metres in a new PB of 47.74 while Ben Maze was second in the B string. We welcomed back Olympian Andrew Baddeley after a five-year gap, and he took second spot in the 800 metres. Omar Grant finished a good second in the 200 metres while Jack Kirby again placed third in the high hurdles, and Terry Fawden made a great debut to finish fourth in the steeplechase.
Luke Roach-Christie returned to the team after his exams, and he placed third in the shot in a competitive 14.62, while also winning the B string discus. Charlie Granville and Dave Sketchley scored great points in the javelin while Jake Storey, on debut, produced an excellent 2.05 high jump which was only good enough for fourth spot in a high quality event. Schools international Teepee Princewill placed third in the triple jump with Damaine Benjamin taking second spot in the B event.
Many thanks to everyone who competed in the BAL this season and see you again in 2017!
Late breaking news for the ladies UK Womens League team who finished fourth in Sale on Sunday and thereby also secured their place in Division 1 for 2017 – well done all!
