The LUCA Cross Country League is set for an exciting conclusion as athletes prepare to race in the final fixture of the season. After months of competition at venues north and south of the river, Wormwood Scrubs will play host to the last race to determine the overall league champions, both for individuals and teams. With the standings still closely contested, the final event promises to be a thrilling spectacle, as athletes push themselves for one last chance to secure vital points.
The race on Wednesday 26th February at Wormwood Scrubs features a muddy course which will be made more challenging by the forecast rain. With everything on the line, expect intense battles throughout the field as competitors fight for both personal and team glory.
And remember, the best three results across the season count towards the final points score – so plenty can change on this final day!
Who’s Leading the Charge?
As it stands, UCL holds a narrow lead in the Mike Baggs Trophy with 38 points, but they face stiff competition from holders KCL who sit in second with 33 points. The margins are tight, meaning that every place in the final race could make the difference between winning the league and finishing as runners-up.
In the men’s team standings, Imperial are strides ahead and look set to tighten their grip on the trophy they have won for four consecutive seasons.
The women’s standings are more open, with the previous two year’s champions, UCL and St George’s likely to claim the silverware. UCL have a slim lead with 2318 points compared to St George’s 2306.
The women’s individual competition will go right to the wire with reigning champion Evie Warren (Surrey) leading the charge by a point over Grace Leyland (St George’s). Warren has won two out the three races, coming second to Leyland at Wimbledon Common. Leyland will know she needs to finish ahead of Warren to secure at least a share of the gold medal or better.
In the men’s individual competition, newcomer Hugo Donovan (Arts) has already wrapped up the title by winning two races and finishing second in the other. His tally of 599 points cannot be bested.
A medal presentation will take place immediately after the race.
