Sleaford cadets win third regional athletics title

With a haul of eight gold, seven silver and two bronze medals, the 27-strong young team were well-placed in all five classes as they pipped 30 other squadrons to become overall champions.

Having won the senior girls’ 800m gold, Cadet Cpl Ella Hansford then pulled off a stunning victory in the 1500m and then added 400m silver to her golden double.

The heroics have earned Ella a place in the Trent Wing team to compete at the regional championships next month.

Not to be outdone by the girls, Cadet Elliott Hodge, also did the 800/1500m double in the junior men’s category, and gained 400m bronze.

Further success in both track and field events saw the medal and points tally rise steadily throughout the day.

Perhaps the day’s most spectacular win came in the junior girls’ 1500m where Cadet Jessica Van Der Sluis just fought off the challenge from 866 Immingham Sqn by a hair’s breadth to take gold.

Points were announced for each of the classes and having picked up a second and third place in two of the groups, plus high placings in the others, Sleaford were then confirmed as the overall champions.

Corporal Ella Hansford received the cup from Wing Commander Tony Wright.

“I really could not have asked more of the team,” said Flying Officer Jessica Brown, Acting Officer Commanding. “They ran, jumped and threw like heroes.

“I am very pleased for those who won medals in their events, but am equally proud of those who gave their all for no other reward than supporting the team effort.”