Former members include Ron Hill, John Wetton, Andy Carter and Jess Piasecki
Winter 2024-25 marks the centenary of Manchester University Cross Country Club.
Over the past century, the club has been at the forefront of sport in Manchester, providing opportunities for all abilities, some of whom have risen through the ranks, notably Ron Hill, who joined in 1957 as a member of the third team and left in 1964 with him. PhD and grabbing an invitation to become an Olympian and represent Great Britain at the 1964 Tokyo Games. He was, of course, to go on to have an illustrious career, winning Commonwealth and European marathon gold as well as representing GB at three Olympics.
But Hill was not alone. Manchester student John Wetton was also selected for the 1964 and 1968 Olympics, finishing fifth in the 1500m final on both occasions.
1969 The weekend before the end of September was a time of pride for the cross country club and the entire university. on Saturday, Wetton stormed home in the 1,500 meters to win European gold in Athens. The next day, not to be outdone, Hill won the marathon to bring double gold to Manchester. And a year later, Hill won the 1970 Commonwealth Games in what many believed to be the best time in the world.
John Wetton (Mark Shearman)
At the 1972 Olympics, Hill was accompanied to the 800m final by Andrew Carter, who had taken bronze at the European Championships in Helsinki the previous year; The following year, the former Manchester student broke the British record for the third time.
To the surprise of many, and showing how times have changed, it’s only been in the last 50 years that women have been allowed to compete in cross country, with Jess Piasecki competing in the 2021 Olympics, while Amy Pratt competed in the Olympics. the last two games. If at one time women were treated as second best, in recent times they have surpassed men and surpassed them in terms of achievements.
Further success at international level has been achieved by more than 30 former cross country club runners in the latter half of their existence. And the cross country club has been successful off the field as well, with many members remaining in athletics post-collegiate, whether as medical directors, team managers, physical therapists, coaches or administrators.
Tiler Billiard chased by Marcus Chantry (JP Kearns)
Since 1967 the club has promoted the University Cross Country Relays, catering for around 800 athletes, with over £3,000 in prize money donated by Ronhill Sports, a company founded by the late Ron Hill. This is the premier relay of student teams across the country, this year’s event will be held on October 26. you can get acquainted with the details. here.
READ MORE. Ron Hill dies aged 82
The cross country club’s centenary dinner will take place on March 15, with nearly 200 past and present members already signed up to celebrate the milestone. You may be reading this as a former club member who has lost touch. If yes, then brucejohngreen@yahoo.com or connect with the club via social media channels.
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