RYDE Harriers runner Trish Train made the long, but successful trip to Wrexham in North Wales to secure selection for England at half marathon distance.

England Athletics, running a successful scheme that allows older athletes the chance to represent their country over 10km, half marathon and full marathon, challenged the first three athletes home inside standard times, from three qualifying races, to go on to gain their England kit and run in the representative race.

Trish, who selected the Wrexham Half qualifier, ran it in almost perfect conditions — competing her Vet 55 age group race in 1hr 32mins 12secs.

It was not all plain sailing for Trish, who suffered cramp in both calves at the 11-mile mark, after a strong run up until that point.

But Trish knew it was key to battle on and, despite initially being disappointed with her time due to the cramp, she cheered up after learning she had won her age group by a huge 11 minutes.

Trish will represent England at the Chester Half Marathon next May.