A DEPLETED Allerton Junior Athletics Club squad travelled to Morpeth on the hottest day of the year so far for the final NEYDL athletics meeting of the season.

Schools affected by positive Covid infections meant that many of the athletes were in isolation and unable to compete. Regardless, the remaining members, along with Darlington Harriers, showed talent and true determination to finish in fourth place on the day and overall fourth place in the league. No promotions or relegations this year mean that AJAC will be back next year competing in the top athletics division in the North of England.

Lucy Boot dominated in the U13 Girls 800m. Her winning time of 02:31, particularly impressive during the midday heat. Personal best throws in the shot put throughout the day included Natasha Pointon recording 6.12m to take second place in the U13 Girls category. James Wilkin claimed first place in the U15 Boys group with a distance of 7.14m. There were more standout performances from Aaron Kurian, who is getting faster through the season, with wins in the U13 Boys 100m in 13:40 and the 200m race with 28:40. He also played a fundamental part in the 4x100m relay, anchoring the team to victory along with Henry Kirkbride, Daniel Dale and Harris Wilson.

AJAC were proud to have a family connection to NEYDL league. Geoff Herbert, the grandfather of athletes Erin, Angus and Mhairi Corcoran sponsored the trophy for the whole event, which their parents presented to the overall division one league winners Harrogate.

Three members of the squad travelled to Manchester for a quadrathlon competition on Saturday, July 24. Participants had to complete a sprint, a middle-distance run, a throw and a jump. Jake Holmes, Tegan Smith and Henry Kirkbride showcased some impressive performances with Henry taking overall second position in his category, displaying his versatility and strength in the combined events.

Connie Wilford received a letter of commendation from Richmond MP and Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak praising her performance at the National Schools Open Cross-Country competition earlier in the month where she finished in fourth position.

Head coach Glen Hilton continues his medal haul. He took the second-place medal in the 3000m in the NEMAA Championships at Monkton on July 6. Also, first in his age group for both 1500m and 800m at the UK Inter Areas Track Championships at Nuneaton on July 18.