Wisbech Inline Speed Skaters win British titles to close 2019 outdoor season in style at Gravesend

Wisbech Inline Speed Skaters have closed the 2019 outdoor season in fine style at the outdoor British Championships in Gravesend.

The track was tough and the weather was hot, proving a challenge for all, but every member of the team that took part in the 26-mile marathon managed to complete the course.

Mike McInerney, after his success in the World Roller Games marathon at Barcelona, finished in overall third place with a time of 1 hour 20 minutes.

Hot on his heels was Warren Eve who finished his 4th marathon of the year with an impressive time of 1hour 24mins, finishing in second place in the Junior Boys category. Eve and Lucy McInerney, Luke Frary and Karl Bates all completed their first marathon race of the year all in less than 1hour 44mins, with Lucy taking the win in the Junior Girls category. Arthur Buckler finished in 1st place and broke the record for the 8kms race in the Pupil Boys category (pending confirmation). Masters Men skater, Luke Frary, smashed the 100mt sprint British record (pending confirmation) with a time of 11.433 seconds, taking the second best time of the day.

Leah Barker, Eve McInerney, Flynn McGurk and Arthur Buckler all picked up their trophies for overall British Champions of 2019 in their age categories.

The day also saw the fourth and final race event for the Roller Road Series with overall champions being awarded. Arthur, Lucy, Flynn and Warren all picked up their trophies, with Arthur and Warren being the only two skaters of the club to compete in all four events.

Lucy McInerney was awarded “Most Improved Female Skater” of 2019 and Arthur Buckler became “Most Promising Young Skater of 2019” by FISS.

Coach Mike said afterwards: “Great efforts on a tough course and hot conditions but everyone finished their distance. Fantastic team spirit which makes WISS such a special team. Looking forward to 2020 coaching the fastest skaters in the country!”

The team are now taking a well earned break with the indoor season starting in January.

Please visit their website www.wisbechinlinespeed.co.uk for up to date news and events.

Report: Jo Tidman. Photo: Natasha Eve.

Back, from left: Lucy McInerney, Flynn McGurk, James Eve, Warren Eve, Karl Bates, Mike McInerney. Front: Arthur Buckler, Luke Frary, Eve McInerney.