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Track & Field

Bandits back in action

Backroads Bandits runners have managed some impressive accomplishments despite the lack of competitions in the COVID-19 era. That includes Phil Parrot-Migas, Connor Black, Chris Balestrini and Jack Sheffar, shown here setting a new London Western 1500m record at the Texas Qualifier ‘Trial of Miles’ event.

Though this past year has been sparse for competition, good things come to those who seize the day. For instance: Phil Parrot-Migas’ fall half-marathon qualified him to represent Canada at the World Half-marathon Championships in Poland (unfortunately, the event was cancelled due to COVID); Connor Black claimed a bronze medal while representing Canada at the NACAC cross country championships; Chris Balestrini ran a 2:17:05 marathon on a rainy cold morning in Waterloo; and Jack Sheffar made the most of the Texas Qualifier Trials of Miles with a new London Western 1500m club record of 3:43.49.

Alexandra Lucki of Toronto West, coached by Gary Westgate, is a recent addition to The Bandits. Her personal bests are currently 4:13.39 and 15:52.71, respectively.

The Bandits also welcome Mike Tate, reigning Canadian Cross-Country Champion and Jenna Westaway, 800m national indoor record holder. Both athletes are coached by Dave Mills at London Western Track Club, as are Connor Black, Jack Sheffar, and Phil Parrot-Migas.

As we moved past the one-year anniversary of COVID-19, we made sure to reflect on the resiliency that our local running community has shown. It has inspired us as Bandits to dig deeper ourselves and persist. Thank you for your support. When you see us on the paths, shout hello. We’ll stay positive, test negative, and spread goodness.

www.londonwesterntfc.com

Submitted by London Western Track & Field and photo by Johnny Zhang