GB v US Challenge (Decathlon/Heptathlon) 2010

This is due to take place in Joplin, Missouri on 19^th and 20^th June 2010.

The competition is really in two parts in that the individual athletes are matched as near as can be with a US athlete of the same standing and preferably in the same age group. This provides the individual challenge.

The main challenge for the Transatlantic Trophy is determined by adding together all the individual points scores for each nation to see who comes out on top.

This is a team competition so no dropping out of the 1500m as this could loose the match ! (The 2008 match was that close)

From this you will appreciate that all standards are welcome but we do ask that if you are competing you need to be as competitive as you can be for the sake of the team.

Whilst you have to fund your flights to and from the US and provide your own spending money the US will provide accommodation with Host Families who will feed you and get you to and from the track.

Most athletes try to fly out on the Thursday but the host families will happily have you earlier and most people stay on into the following week when Tom Thorne usually arranges a programme of events.

What you then do is up to you. Some will have to return to the UK whilst others will take the opportunity to holiday elsewhere in the States.

The Americans are fantastically hospitable and many of us who have visited before will be staying with the same families who in many instances have become firm friends over the years.

We do need to give the Americans details of those who are really interested in taking part as early as possible so as to help them sort out suitable hosts. In this respect and for publicity purposes we ask that those who have not gone before provide a short profile of themselves to state any athletic achievements and something of themselves ie. occupation, interests etc.

I should also add that spouses/partners will also be welcome on the same basis.

If you are interested then do please contact me at : bruce.charles@ntlworld.com or on 01235 211532.

I shall be at the Indoor Pentathlon and the Indoor Championships so do see me then for further information.

Bruce Charles