Strong youth show in national cross country

 ADAM Howard gave Oldham and Royton Harriers a fine start in the English Cross-Country Championships at Roundhay Park, Leeds.

Adam produced a superb run in the under-15 race, finishing third in a hot heat in 14.08. He was followed by Steven Heanue (305th in 17.23) and Scott Healey (307th in 17.26).

In the under-13 girls’ race, Rachel Emmott and Emma Burman ran well in their first national finals to finish 369th and 389th respectively in 16.09 and 16.46.

Christopher Brown led home the under-13 boys team in 61st position in 12.36, followed by Connor Colleavy (226th in 13.47), Bradley Healey (251st in 13.57), Luke Brierley (324th in 14.54), Nathan Hilditch (351st in 15.35) and James Riley (373rd in 19.54). Harriers finished 28th.

In the junior women’s race, Jane Augsburger made a good start but had to retire due to injury.

Michael Mannings was 288th in 45.56 in the men’s race, followed by Owen Flage (696th, 51.30) and Brian Schofield (1093rd, 58.02).