Cross Country
General
Cross Country has traditionally been a discipline where Weymouth St Paul’s Harriers have been strong (the name harrier probably comes from the old ‘Hare & Hounds’ cross-country running races in public schools).
Although smaller numbers now take part from this club we are represented in the Cross Country events in Dorset and Southwest England by a few who really enjoy this challenging form of competition.
Training
As well as being good (though not-so-clean!) fun, Cross Country is an excellent way of building fitness and stamina during the winter months in preparation for the summer track season.
Pete Clarke runs a Beach Training session on Tuesday nights in winter, meeting at the steps nearest the Pavilion at 6.00pm which is also good XC training. All are welcome.
Competitions
We are affiliated to the Wessex League, and there is one race per month between October & March with events for all from 10 years of age and over. We combine with Dorchester AC to make a joint team for this.
In addition, success at the Dorset Championships in Dec/Jan leads to selection for Regional & National events, which is the route taken by many of Britain’s track stars including Paula Radcliffe.
Wessex League
Weymouth runs a joint team with Dorchester. You don’t need to pre-register, just turn up at the event. You do not need a number but you do need to hand in your ticket with the place you come to or a representative from Weymouth or Dorchester AC after the race.
Where you come in the race is points you are then awarded, e.g 1st gives you 1 point, 3rd gives you 3 points. You have to take part in 4 out of the 5 events to be in running for a trophy. The first 3 places in each category (except under 11) receive Trophies, with the least number of points coming first.
Wessex League meetings start with the under-11s race at 12.45pm, the final race of the day will be the senior men which usually starts at 2.00pm. Races distance vary from venue to venue but this table will give some idea of what to expect:
| Category | Approx Distance | Approx Time |
|---|---|---|
| Under-11s | about 1km (fun run) | 12.45pm |
| Under-13 girls | about 2km | 1.00pm |
| Under-13 boys | about 2.5-3.5km | 1.05pm |
| Under-15 girls | about 2.5-3.5km | 1.10pm |
| Under-15 boys | about 3-4km | 1.20pm |
| Under-17 girls | about 3-4 km | 1.25pm |
| Under-17 boys | about 5-7 km | 1.30pm |
| Senior Ladies | about 5-7 km | 1.40pm |
| Senior Men | 6-10 km | 2.00pm |
(Note: all timings are approximate)
We are often not advised of exact race times until arrival on site – so be there in good time. Your age category is decided by your age. e.g U11- school yrs 4,5 & 6; U13 – yrs 7, & 8, U15, yrs 9 & 10.
You can run in the age group above you, if you wish.
More information can be found on the Team Dorset Athletics page at teamdorsetathletics.btck.co.uk including directions to events.
For more information call Jan Westhenry on 01305 816354.