O'Neill seals V70 title as Bels finish second on Wimbledon Common

Belgrave juniors distance coach Terry O’Neill showed his charges how it’s done, taking the V70 title in the third round of the Surrey Cross Country league. The Bels finished a distant second behind league leaders Hercules Wimbledon, leaving the boys needing a stellar result in the final fixture - and a healthy dose of luck - if they are to regain the title.

Wicks, Sommerville and Hart get amongst our Hercules rivals

Credit: Danny Easton

In cold conditions and on a highly technical course, Belgrave battled in the absence of some big hitters to finish second in the team standings. Sam Gebreselassie and Henry Hart finished two seconds apart in 15th and 16th respectively. Hart has since been called up to represent Scotland for the first time, and will compete over 100km in the Anglo Celtic Plate in March.

A few places back in 19th, Phil Wicks performed brilliantly after an injury niggle that has dogged his season. He was followed by Harrison Bagley in 25th, Sam Sommerville in 33rd and a clutch of Bels in Ollie Garrod, Eoin Molloy and Conall Whelan, who rounded off our placers in the top 50.

A healthy turnout ensured that the Bels won the ‘B’ category comfortably. Team manager Steve Gardner - who bellyflopped twice in this race - will be confident that they can retain that title come the final fixture next month.

But Belgrave are already able to pop the champagne for Terry O’Neill - our dedicated juniors distance coach - who wrapped up the V70 title in Wimbledon. Terry still has the V65 category to fight for in the last round in West Horsley Place.

Lots to be proud of, as ever, but lots more to do. We’re going to need everyone, everything and more if we’re going to turn things around next month.

Full results can be accessed here

Credit: Danny Easton