Following Sonny's victory at the National XC Championship 3 weeks ago, we set off for the ESAA race in Liverpool with high hopes but with the added pressure of now being the favourite, which, while a great position to be in, does bring in the issue of being everyone else's target. For many it can be daunting but Sonny seemed to take it all in her stride and appeared as cool as a cucumber.
Sefton Park was bathed in glorious sunshine and as we walked the course it became clear it was going to be a very fast race without any major hill climbs or particularly muddy areas, which clearly was going to suit Sonny.
As with the Nationals we had a simple plan, get out fast in a very large field of 330 athletes, sit behind the leader/s, let them do the work and kick hard with 2-300m to go. Plan worked like a dream, first to the sharp corner then relaxed and controlled the race with only about 3-4 others still in contention after 2.5km of the short 3.8km course. Sonny then changed the race plan because she told me afterwards she felt really strong and could feel the others struggling.
It was a great move as she started to stretch them out and with around 500m to go she was well clear with a 15 sec gap to second. While she kept pushing there was no need for her to use her fearsome kick and strode across the line a comfortable winner!
The victory is so well deserved and has given her a long held ambition, to get an England vest! She will be representing England next weekend in Bangor, Wales at the SIAB schools international meeting.
Winning one major XC title in a season is very tough but to take both titles is truly remarkable and far beyond her coach's expectations for this year. Well done Sonny, your Mum, Dad, siblings, coach, training partners, and I'm sure everyone else at HH, are so proud of you!!!
