Cross Country
Solihull has produced one of its most glittering seasons on recent record. This has been due to a combination of having a large, enthusiastic squad, and having West Midlands Champion John Whitehouse in our realm. It was a season of new opportunities; we travelled to the Oxford Tortoise Race for the first time in the school’s history, and were invited to The Midland and Northern Independent Schools after a long period of absence. The first team competed very well in these races, finishing 6th on each occasion. However, our most remarkable result of the season came at The Worcester Spring Relay, where we achieved a very impressive 5th place. The competition in these races is drawn from both regional and national levels and so represents real achievement.
Our staple diet remains the Greater Birmingham League and continues to provide excellent experience whatever the standard of runner. The first team’s third place and the second team’s first place in their respective divisions was splendid, reflecting well upon the strength and spirit of the squad.
Our finest runner, John Whitehouse, enjoyed numerous wins throughout the year and eventually finished top of the Individual League. The emergence of young tyros such as Angus Phillips, Drew Masters and John Harris was a real bonus. Michael Rudd too proved a stalwart and Matt Burrows, a signing in the January window, showed he could be a big-time contributor next year. Full colours were awarded to Angus Phillips and Michael Rudd. The West Midlands representative honours gained by John Whitehouse, Heather Williams and Alex Lambert in the English Schools Championship, and the fixture against Wales were a final fitting testimony to the standard of distance running within the school.
The team’s progress and expansion into new events can be largely put down to Mr Holt’s unmatched dedication and direction in his coaching. Many thanks go to him for the effort he has put into this sport. Good luck to the team next year!
Alex Lambert
Alex cannot be allowed to leave without tribute paid to his immense involvement in the sport during his time at the school. His ability is evident for all to see but his dedication and hard work provide the backbone for this prowess. We will miss not just his running but also his good humour and leadership next season.
Mr P T Holt