Athletics: Arundel doubles up to lead Wessex standings (From Bournemouth Echo)

Athletics: Arundel doubles up to lead Wessex standings

7:00am Friday 2nd November 2012 in Youth Sport By Echo Reporter

JOE Arundel (LeAF Elite Athlete Academy) has won the first two races in the Wessex Under-17s Cross Country League.

Arundel increased his lead over his nearest competitor Ryan Walbridge by taking his second victory at Ham Hill, in a time of 17.22, 11 seconds ahead of second-placed Ben Millar.

The league comprises of four races, with the best three personal finishes taken into account.

These are added up to give individuals scores, which complete the league table. Those with the highest finishes gain the lowest scores, and as Arundel has won two races, he totals two points, three clear of Walbridge on five.

It is only one of three disciplines that Arundel participates in as a triathlete. He also competes in single discipline events in swimming and cycling.

Arundel’s major focus of the year has been the South West Triathlon Series, in which he was crowned youth series winner last month, adding to his titles in duathlon in February and aquathlon in June.

Over the winter, Arundel’s primary focus will be to increase his aerobic base and concentrate on swimming which he believes is his weakest discipline.

Paul Chapman, Arundel’s LeAF elite coach, will work closely alongside physiotherapists and a sports psychologist at the school to give Arundel the best chance of success in the near future.