Athletics - ECCA Challenge in Birmingham

Oct 23 2008 by Nick Pullen, Birmingham Mail

ATHLETICS

By Nick Pullen

TOP-class cross country running returns to Birmingham’s Senneleys Park on Saturday with the ECCA Challenge.

Previously known as the Reebok Challenge, the race incorporates all three divisions of the Birmingham Cross Country League and should attract a field in the region of 700 for the Senior Men’s race (2.30pm).

Also included at the event is the opening race in the Midland Women’s Cross Country League.

Saturday’s contest is part of a four-race series taking place across the country this winter, with the final scheduled for London’s Parliament Hill Fields.

Competition includes races for Under-11s, Under-13s, Under-15s and Under-17s with the event culminating in the Senior Men’s race.

Last year’s winner Jean Ndayesinga, of Birchfield Harriers, and runner-up Chris Davies, from Telford, have both entered and will be favourites to go close again.