Eskdale Show

Saturday, 30th September 2023

Saturday’s wrestling at Eskdale Show was a soggy affair with rain set in for the afternoon. Spectators weren’t deterred though as they huddled around the wrestling ring eager for the Under 10 years Championship to start.

Current title holder, Ollie Stainton had his tenth birthday in April so a new champion was imminent. A promising number of 27 proved to be just one short of the record championship entry this grass season; the All weights at Grasmere Sports. Competitors had their eyes on the gleaming championship trophy, a cup resurrected from the Steadman collection. The rounds progressed to semi final stage leaving two Carlisle Club wrestlers; Jack Norman and Isaac Stainton versus Waberthwaite’s William Benn and William Brownrigg. Jack saw off William Benn and Isaac despatched William Brownrigg to reach the championship final.

Left leg inside clicks were Jack’s attack and his second attempt claimed the first fall. In the second bout it was all attack from Jack with an attempted cross buttock, twist off the hip, and another inside click but Isaac survived all. A successful cross buttock took the second fall and Jack Norman became the new champion. Jack is nine years of age and attends Kirkbampton School. Usually amongst the Limousins and free range hens at Spital Syke Farm, he visited Dalston Show in August and tried his hand at Cumberland and Westmorland Wrestling. Intrigued to learn more, Jack attended taster sessions at Low Hesket Village Hall and competed at all the grass events he could in the seven weeks leading up to the championship. He listened well and learned fast. Jack has influenced his younger sister Lily (aged 7) bringing her along to taster sessions. Additionally he has persuaded his Dad (Mike) to step back into the ring, reminiscent of his ‘Young Farmer Field Days’. There’s wrestling in the genes though, Jack’s Great Granda being former wrestler John Blamire of Oughterby.

The rest of the afternoon’s wrestling saw another under 12s win for Bobby Stewart. George Peacock bossed the under 15s, and under 18s Alfie Spedding beat a lively Jack Pitts. Rosie Hodgson once again took a first in the Ladies, Rory Dreghorn battled hard to fell Jake Pitts in 10.5st and Myles Stainton did the double - winning both the 12.5st and All weights. Special mention to Harvey Dines, taking fourth place in 12.5st. Harvey turns up to wrestle when holidaying in the Lake District and always performs well.

**Does not count towards Victor/Victrix Ludorum trophies

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Results