Eagles runners flying high in most successful season
EALING EAGLES Running Club are celebrating the most successful season in their history after both the men’s and women’s teams secured promotion.
The W5-based outfit, which now has more than 700 members after being formed 15 years ago, went into the final Metropolitan Cross County League fixture at Trent Park with their hopes in the balance.
However, both sides did enough on the day in north London to ensure they will be competing in the top flight next season.
The men arrived at the fifth meeting of the campaign in the second promotion spot in Division Two, with London Frontrunners and local rivals Ealing, Southall and Middlesex AC hot on their heels.
However, impressive performances from Rohan Archer, Firas Alhawat, Ben Smith and Niall Gilchrist led the A team to third place on the day to seal a first-ever promotion to the top tier. There was further cause for celebration as the strength in depth saw the B team beat the drop to maintain their Division Two status for another year.
The women’s team were also toasting promotion as they bounced back from relegation at the first attempt.
The A team suffered heartbreak on the final day of last season as they lost their place in Division One by just two points.
However, they made no mistake this time around as great runs from Holly Wilkinson, Molly Deely, Alicja Kordowska and Jennifer Watt helped steer the Eagles to fourth place on the day to seal their spot behind Herts Phoenix in the top two.
Men’s XC captain Gilchrist said: “We had 95 different men and women turn out and run at least one race this season, so it really was the true definition of a team effort. It’s a great achievement for both teams to be promoted and a reward for everyone’s efforts this winter.
“We look forward to competing in the top division next season.”
Elsewhere, the club also boasts a thriving junior section, and the Under 11 boys secured fourth place in their highly-competitive age category. Louis Turner led them home at Trent Park with an impressive top 10 finish, while Noah Liborg, Oscar Poole, Sidney Rochester, Levi Siburns and Harry Bruzon combined to help them to third place overall on the day.
Coach Joseph Williams said: “The boys went up against some established athletics clubs, some of whom boast past and present Olympians in their alumni. It was a fantastic team effort which saw the Eagles grow significantly in confidence and ability throughout the season.
“They will move up to U13s next season so it was a great way to sign off in this age category. Hopefully we can build on this success in the summer track meets.”
■ Are you interested in joining the Eagles? The club is a friendly, inclusive running club and welcomes members of all standards from beginners to competitive runners. Visit www.ealingeagles.com for information.