After almost a year of waiting, it was finally time for most Gauls to participate in an official athletic competition again. Last Sunday, the competition of the National League took place! The men and women of the third division went to Roermond, and the men of the second division had to participate in Nijmegen. Besides all athletes doing their best, we also had some volunteers working very hard (thank you!), and cheering on Asterix from the sidelines.
In Roermond, the men’s team started the day with hammer throw in which Michiel was able to come close to 23 meters. In the afternoon, Stefan managed to run a big personal best on the 800 meters! Also, both Diego and Wing participated in the 100 and 200 meters, being the first competition for Diego.
At the women’s team, the day was started with shot put, in which Rebecca managed to throw 9,97m. Justine definitely ensured that the team gained a lot of points, by winning the 100 and 200 meters, and coming in second place with the 100 meters hurdles. Sophie did a great job at the hammer throw and Esmee participated in her first competition during the 100 meters as well. The predicted rain was postponed a bit, but came by in the afternoon with quite some wind due to which we had to hold and break down tents. Luckily, we were able to keep ourselves warm with the brand new Asterix’ sweaters and the competition could continue after a short delay. Carmen ran a personal best in the 1500 meters and Britt earned points within the long jump! Maaike participated in the 400 meters, and finished the 4x400 in a new club record with Elise, Hannah and Lianne. By coming in fourth in the third division at the end of the day, the women have ensured a place for the promotion / relegation match in September, to hopefully be able to promote to the second division!
Meanwhile, there were some great performances in Nijmegen. Boudewijn and Matthijs both jumped the height of 1,70, while Jelle used a pole to jump 3,30. Casper S. and Rik participated in javelin throw, where Rik got further this time. With shot put, Oscar managed to throw a new club record of 12,45. Also, Casper P. ran a new personal best on the 800 meters and Tom ran a new personal best on the 5000 meters! Teun was also close to his PBs at the 100 and 200 meters. At the end of the day, rain came by here too, but this did not prevented the 4x400 team from performing well. Casper P., Harry, Ramon and Wessel finished the day soaked, but with a time of 3:40,45.
We ended the day by having dinner together in Eindhoven with all teams. This weekend all Gauls definitely unleashed their purple, and the women’s team is looking forward to doing their best at the National League in September once more!
