Cross Country Running (1967-68)

In many ways this season's running, so promising at the outset, was disappointing. Injury, illness and a lack of reserves were all reflected in the results which, although reasonable, never reached the level of the team's collective promise.

For the seniors, two races stand out: the Ranelagh Harriers' Schools' Race, in which our team was placed third against some very strong competition, and the Middlesex Grammar Schools' Race, in which they came second. This was the first time for several seasons that St. Nicholas G.S. had been among the first three placings.

The Under 15 team generally found itself competing in Under 16 races but remained undeterred and produced some fine performances. They were second out of a vast field in the Highgate Harriers' Under 15 Race, and second in the Borough of Hillingdon Under 16 Race.

Of individual runners, Kirke, who continually improved throughout the season, and Narracott, who was a reserve for the Middlesex Schools Senior team, were the strength of the senior team. Atkinson had a disappointing season, never really reaching his best form, and Hoblyn (who did an excellent job as Fixtures Secretary) had a very unhappy time, striving hard, but never reaching his previous high standard.

Amongst the Under 16 team both Lovett and Szelewski, who ran occasionally for the seniors, were outstanding. The Under 16 team is of high quality and should provide the basis for a very strong senior team for the future.

The School teams placings in the various races entered are given below. The number of teams in the field is given in brackets.