Stratford AC's senior athletes mark their return to Midlands Track & Field League action with a bang

SINCE their return to league action after a two-year hiatus, Stratford AC’s senior team has pulled out all the stops to win the first two Midlands Track & Field League fixtures of the 2021 season.

In the blustery damp conditions at Nuneaton and under the hot sun in Leamington, the gold and black tide swept away the efforts of local rivals Leamington, Coventry Godiva, Rugby & Northampton and Nuneaton.

The league brings together athletes and officials from all parts of the club. Matches feature spirited competition between athletes aged from U17 through to veteran across the full range of run, jump and throw disciplines.

Although self-isolations and a late change in date conspired to keep some athletes away, Stratford’s strength-in-depth has been evident, with the club still able to field a powerful all-round squad in both fixtures.

On top of this, there’s been so many mighty performances, personal bests and season’s bests, it’s impossible to name them all. The senior athletes have shown tremendous enthusiasm while the talented cohort of younger members have shown calm maturity and competitiveness.

Club chairman Paul Hawkins said: “Because of my medical issues I’ve not been able to contribute much to this season, but I have been able to watch both matches, albeit from a distance.

“The team spirit from all the Stratford AC athletes has been wonderful, as has the quality of the performances.

“Mike Sheppard has done a fantastic job as team manager. I’ve been so proud of everyone involved with the team, including the coaches and officials.”

The third and final match of the season is on 15th August.