RAF Champ earns country call up
05 February 2010
ENGLAND expects and Cpl Rob Budgen is aiming to not let the Service down after gaining selection just hours after winning the RAF champion ships at High Wycombe.
The Cosford based runner, who stormed to victory in the recent championships, just days after finishing second on the Midlands Open tournament, received the news that he will be representing his country in Belgium on February 14.
The young runner blew away a pack on a difficult track set for the Service championships, which had some defeated early due to the terrain and weather. For those willing and able to do battle royal, the course, 10k course for men and 5k for women, provided some challenging twists and turns.
Team captain Wg Cdr Dave Cole said: “This was a traditional cross-country course, which provided a great test. It will be interesting to have the Inter-Services here and hopefully we can wrestle the title back from the Army.”
In the veteran men’s section, stalwart Wg Cdr Dave Cole proved his everlasting talents again, romping home in true style. In the ladies Cpl Jodie Digby from Halton cruised home, while in the juniors men’s AC Hayden Carter from Halton won the day.
In the women’s Flt Lt Tara Park from Digby won through.
With 80 men and 16 ladies taking part, the event was a great precursor to the Inter-Services, which will also be held at High Wycombe on February 26.
