British Athletes Shine at European Masters Championships in Madeira

Britain’s dominance in middle-distance running was on full display as athletes secured an impressive eight gold medals at the European Masters Championships in Madeira on October 18, 2023. The day was marked by record-breaking performances, including four British records and two world records, highlighting the UK’s strength in track and field events.

Among the standout performances was that of Rob McHarg, who shattered the official M60 world record in the 800 meters with a time of 2:07.65. This achievement follows his previous world indoor records in both the 800m and 1500m earlier this year. Competing fiercely against Andrew Ridley, who finished second in the 1500m at the championships, McHarg set a blistering pace, clocking a split of 63 seconds at the bell. Ridley was unable to catch him, and McHarg’s time surpassed the former record of 2:08.56 set by American Nolan Shaheed.

The British contingent not only excelled in individual events but also dominated the relays and other field disciplines, amassing a total of 23 gold medals on that Saturday alone. With the final day of competition still to come, Britain was poised to lead the medal table, having already secured a total of 114 golds, 91 silvers, and 65 bronzes, outpacing Germany and France.

In addition to McHarg’s historic run, the championships witnessed other notable victories. Sarah Roberts opened the day with a commanding win in the W75 800m, finishing in 3:05.12, nearly 30 seconds ahead of her closest competitor. Roberts, who had already claimed gold in the 1500m, 5000m, and 10,000m, solidified her status as a dominant force in her age group.

The women’s races continued to showcase British talent, with Betty Stracey claiming gold in the W85 category. She finished in 5:23.18, triumphing over Greece’s Smaragda Mandyla. Anna Garnier, the reigning 1500m champion, also secured victory in the W70 race, clocking 3:01.38.

In a thrilling finish in the W40 event, Ellie Stevens fought hard to claim her fifth individual gold of the championships, edging out Ireland’s Bronwen McDonald with a time of 2:14.79 to McDonald’s 2:14.98.

The men’s events proved equally electrifying. In the M85 category, Jean-Louis Esnault came close to setting a new world record, finishing with a time of 3:01.44. Meanwhile, Colin Spivey, competing in the M90 division, set a British record in his first 800m race with a time of 4:17.60, significantly improving upon the previous best by 16 seconds.

The championships also featured impressive performances in the field events. Dash Newington claimed gold in the W40 pole vault, clearing 3.65m and overcoming an early setback. Sue Yeomans, a world masters silver medallist, won W70 gold in the vault, with a third-time clearance at 2.30m.

The atmosphere in Madeira was electric as athletes celebrated their achievements and set their sights on the final day of competition. The 4x400m relay and half marathon events, as well as several field competitions, will conclude the championships, ensuring that British athletes have every opportunity to add to their medal tally.

As the championships progress, the anticipation continues to build, with fans eagerly awaiting further record-breaking performances and thrilling contests from the athletes representing the UK.