A PRESTATYN runner’s appearance for Wales’ 55-64 category was marred after a disruption on the course caused the leading runners to make a wrong turn, and cross the finish line in the wrong direction.
Gordon Jones, who has represented Prestatyn Running Club since the 1980s and now lives in Rhos-on-Sea, was selected for Wales’ team for the Home Nations tie against England at the Wales 5k in Tenby.
Despite finishing sixth in the race, an unfortunate incident occurred with around 400 metres to go, when a race marshal allowed pedestrians to cross the course.
In doing so, leading runners were forced to make a wrong turn and ended up running an extra 400 metres and going over the finishing line in the wrong direction.
Due to this, the chip on their number did not record their finish, and their deviation from the official course resulted in their subsequent disqualification.
“Fortunately, the error was corrected before I and a few others came to the same spot, so we stayed on course and finished correctly.
“It didn't affect the Wales team V55-64 finishers, but it looks like one or two English V55-64 runners may have been disqualified.
“I guess the Wales team will have won the match in our age group, but, for me, it would be a very hollow victory.”
The first Wales V55-64 runner home was Erik Campbell (Buckley AC) in 18.09, with Gordon Jones second in 18.22.
An ex-Wrexham AC runner, Bernie Jones, was the third scorer, and Geran Hughes (Gog Triathlon Club) was fourth scorer.
MORE: JD Cymru North: 22/23 season fixtures for Prestatyn Town
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