Devastation

On August 7, many an OV would have would have settled in to watch the heats of the 4 x 100 men’s track relay at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games  with the Australian team containing to former students Jack Hale and Jacob Despard. The heats can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e2umgC6KE1c.

Three to go through to the final : Azzopardi to Despard – great change – mighty run by Despard down the back straight – Despard to Hale another great change – Hale speeds around the bend – up with the Brits – qualification seems a sure thing - Browning stumbles – no baton change – disqualified. Devastation all round. Despite this both are to be commended on the way with which they conducted themselves in light of the outcome.

OVA congratulates the two lads on making the team and shares their disappoint – so much work time and effort had been expended in getting to that event.  Hopefully both will continue with the sport and will be in Paris for the 2024 Olympics.