Forrester flies into final, but Smith not so lucky

Jul 10 2008 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Daily Post

THERE were contrasting fortunes for David Forrester and Chris Smith in their respective heats of the World Junior Championships held at Bydgoszcz in Poland.

Forrester (St Helens-Sutton) reached Thursday’s final of the 1,500m, qualifying as a fastest loser in 3.47.64 while Smith (Wirral) recorded 1.53.36 in the 800m, but failed to progress in an equally tactical race which was decided by a sprint finish.

Their respective clubs had tough matches in the Northern League without them. Saints competed at rain sodden Halifax battling through into sixth place with club records from Steve Clague in the junior pole vault (2.20) and the 4x400m quartet of Heather Drilling-court, Jemma Shaw, Lauren Bradshaw and Natalie Garrity recorded 4.23.6 for a club under-17s record.

Josie Barrow returned from a two-year injury nightmare to win the high jump while last minute substitute 3,000m athlete Rosie O’Hagan was inspired by Tony Raffle’s courageous run in the steeplechase.

In a tough match at Leigh Wirral also took sixth place despite a win in the 200m by Julie Money and two splendid performances from Kate Brick who recently made her international debut in Hungary.

Liverpool Harriers consolidated their position in third place, Michael Goulding producing a sprint double, Michael Bomba taking the shot putt and Sophie Whiteside winning the 400m. On Sunday the second round of the Cheshire League sees St Helens-Sutton at Connah’s Quay, Wirral at Macclesfield and West Cheshire entertain Halton & Frodsham at Ellesmere Port.

There are 5k road races at Blackburn and St Annes. Next Wednesday sees the Tony Barnes Sefton Park 5 which all local clubs are urged to support.