BEN Claridge is on cloud nine after winning 400m gold at the English Schools’ Track & Field Championships, writes Jack Johnson.
The 18-year-old, from Blewbury, won the senior boys title at the Gateshead International Stadium.
Claridge, who has just finished his A-Levels at King Alfred’s Academy, in Wantage, won his first round heat, before storming to victory in the final in 47.83secs.
But the White Horse Harrier, who is fifth in the under 20 national rankings, only believed he could win the title after Owen Richardson, from Hampshire, was disqualified in his heat.
“It feels weird (to be champion),” said Claridge, who also captained the boys team for a second successive year.
“It is a good feeling, but quite a shock.
“I went in with top three expectations and then the potential favourite was disqualified.
“After that I had it in my head that I wanted to win it.”
RESULTS
ENGLISH SCHOOLS’
TRACK & FIELD CHAMPIONSHIPS
(finals only)
Boys – Senior – 400m: 1 B Claridge (Whh) 47.83. Inter – 400m: 8 M Coleman (Rad) 51.29. Junior – Javelin: 8 D Kelly (Abn) 45.83, 17 S Richardson (Abn) 40.94.
Girls – Senior – 100m hurdles: 6 A Hopkins (Rad) 14.50. Discus: 11 L Chantler Edmond (Rad) 31.30. Junior – Hammer: 6 E Lovibond (Rad) 46.85.
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