THE newly-promoted Basildon AC team travelled to Copthall for their first National Junior League match and achieved major success.

The squad was reduced by injuries and meant a busy weekend of matches for all age groups.

Kirsty Shepherd took a narrow victory in the A string 100 metres.

Gemma Kersey also returned to action with a creditable second place in the A string 1500.

The men's team fielded a fine track display, international James Shane convincingly won the A 3,000 as well as the A 1500.

Shane was joined by Dale Clutterbuck who earned second place in the B 1500.

There was a second place for Paige Haines in the A 800 which was backed up by Matt Bloy finishing third in the B.

Jake Wright negotiated the steeplechase barriers to third place over a distance of 2,000.

Matt Lumm came home in second over the A 400. There was a fantastic race in the 4 x 400 where the team of James Shane, Chris James, Haines and Matt Harrison brought the baton home in second.

A notable performance came from debutant Will Matthews, who achieved a personal best and valuable points in the pole vault.

>Basildon are looking for talented throwers and jumpers to join their talented under-20 team. They must be school year 10 and above, but under-20 at midnight December 31 this year.

All are welcome to come and try out for free at Gloucester Park on Mondays and Wednesdays from 7pm.