Masters Grand Prix and Northern Masters Athletic Championships 2023: A Day of Triumph and Records
The Masters Grand Prix and Northern Masters Athletic Championships 2023 held at Leigh Sports Village on July 16th proved to be an unforgettable day for the over 200 Masters Athletes who gathered to showcase their skill, determination, and love for the sport. With a brilliant venue layout at Leigh Sports Village and favourable weather conditions defying initial forecasts, the event unfolded seamlessly, thanks to the meticulous organization led by Event Manager Darren Scott.
Scott’s expertise was evident as he efficiently orchestrated the track and field timetable, ensuring the event ran punctually. The venue’s outstanding layout contributed to the atmosphere, with music adding an extra layer of excitement. The presence of graded officials, electronic timing, and Electronic Distance Measurement (EDM) equipment underscored the commitment to accuracy and record-keeping.
Among the track highlights, the legendary Masters sprinter Steve Peters celebrated his 70th birthday by securing the sprint double in the 100m and 200m. However, the title of the fastest master sprinter of the day went to world champion and British M45 100m record holder Dominic Bradley. Bradley clocked an impressive 11.16 in the 100m and 22.65 in the 200m, a particularly special feat as he competed against his son Drew, both representing Crewe & Nantwich.
Amana Potter of Wakefield claimed the title of the fastest female sprinter of the day in the W35 category. Noteworthy performances included M80 Victor Shirley’s season-best in the 400m (83.14) and W45 Vickey Wright’s personal best in the 800m (2.37.19).
In the field events, John Nicholls of Warrington AC emerged victorious in the M55 Shot (13.88m), and John Twiddle from Kingston upon Hull secured second place. (13.53m) Morris Fox of City of Stoke set a personal best in the M60 Shot (14.52m) and won the Discus with a throw of 40.01m. The battle in the M40 Discus saw Roger Bate of Trafford narrowly edging out Tom Grantham of Sheffield & Dearne by 4cm.
Gemma Bate dominated the women’s W40 Hammer and Discus events, while W35 Nia Rutter of Blackpool Wyre & Fylde shone with an impressive haul of six gold medals. The male Athlete of the Day went to M60 Mark Line of Liverpool and Pembroke, who participated in an outstanding seven events and threw the Javelin beyond 40m (40.61m).
Among the senior athletes, W75 Mary Parker from Pendle and M85 Tony Bowman of Leeds City showcased their enduring spirit by participating in multiple events, proving age is no barrier to passion and dedication.
Sprinters enjoyed the advantage of favourable winds, skilfully managed by the event manager. The day was further elevated by the presence of Donald Brown, whose brilliant commentary and athlete interviews added an extra layer of excitement.
The event would not have been possible without the dedication of the officials and a heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who contributed to making the day a resounding success.
Notably, the quick dissemination of results on Power of 10 within 48 hours added a modern and efficient touch to the championships, leaving athletes and enthusiasts alike with a sense of accomplishment and anticipation for future events. The Masters Grand Prix and Northern Masters Athletic Championships 2023 at Leigh Sports Village were not just a showcase of athletic prowess but a celebration of the enduring spirit of competition and camaraderie within the Masters Athletic community.
Masters Grand Prix Team