Commonwealth Games B Qualifiers

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Congratulations to Lauren Foote and Darren Billett who have recently achieved Commonwealth Games 'B' qualifiers (based on 2006 qualifications).

Lauren travelled to New Zealand to compete in the New Zealand Combined Events Championships, 7-8 of February 2009. The competition was fierce between Lauren and Sara Cowley of Auckland. Cowley won the 100m hurdles and high jump. The high jump was especially hot with Foote scaling 1.80m and Cowley a 1.83m PB. From the 200m onwards, Lauren was victorious and the event was decided in the long jump when Cowley had foul trouble and Lauren nailed 5.91m.

Going into the 800m, Lauren was aiming for a World University qualifying performance. Cowley pushed herself to a virtual standstill which helped Lauren to 2min 19.66s. Lauren's 5661score was both a World University qualifier, Commonwealth Games 'B' qualifier and a PB.

Final Results:

1 Foote, Lauren Australian Club 5661

2 Cowley, Sarah Auckland 5392

3 Baker, Emily Hamilton City Hawks 4564

4 Radford, Katherine Otago 3131

 

Darren recently travelled to the ACT to train with Stuart Rendell (Aust. hammer throw record holder). While in Canberra, Darren won the ACT state championships and continued working on refining his throwing technique. This improved technique was evident at interclub on Saturday where Darren's first throw flew a distance of 67.34m, a Commonwealth Games 'B' qualifier and an official PB. Darren's throw was well balanced and looked effortless. "The hammer made a whirling noise through the air as it left Darren's hand that made everyone look up during the competition" reported Kym Miller.

Congratulations to both Lauren and Darren and hopefully we will see two Enfield athletes in the 2010 Commonwealth Games team!