University girls excel

ROTHERHAM Harriers girls excelled at the British University Athletic Championships in Bedford.

Laura Spence finished fourth on the 2000m steeplechase debut in 7:14.71 minutes, just missing out on the bronze medal by three seconds.

Laura's achievement was outstanding as this was the first time she had done the event. The previous week her she had received two specialist training sessions from her coach Dennis Russell in which she really flourished and looked a natural steeplechaser.

Annabelle Grady competed in the 1500m. In the heats she finished fourth in 4:48.31 and in the semi-finals Annabelle finished fifth in a new personal best of 4:39.31 to qualify for the final.

In the final she ran her heart out to finish ninth in 4.40.77 which also beat her previous best time.

Said coach Dennis Russell: “Annabelle was better known for her exploits as a multi-event competitor, but now in the senior age group she is turning into a class athlete.”