SOME OF the Isle of Wight's top athletes were in action, putting in some notable performances — particularly British international runner, Henry McLuckie. 

After his outstanding win in the Armagh 5k, Henry competed in two big national indoor events — both with success.

In Birmingham, he lined up in the final of the men’s 3,000m at the British Championships, which were acting as a trial for the forthcoming European Championships. 

In a very strong international field, Henry used his strength to take the lead just after the half-way point — his injection of pace splitting the field.

Isle of Wight County Press: Henry McLuckie.Henry McLuckie. (Image: Contributed)

He battled hard to hold his position until the last 400m, where some of the more experienced internationals gradually passed him.

Henry finished an excellent fourth place — just outside of the medals, but was rewarded with a huge personal best of 7mins 55.82secs.

His proud parents, Stuart and Gina, and grandad, Nobby Nash, were in the stands watching him race.

Back on the track, less than a week later, Henry was representing his university, St Mary’s, at the British Universities Indoor Championships — again over 3,000m.

Isle of Wight County Press: Henry McLuckie (wearing 80).Henry McLuckie (wearing 80). (Image: Contributed)

He cruised through his heat on Saturday and, in a slower, tactical final on Sunday, was just pipped by James Heneghan, of Cardiff University, in just 0.35 of a second, in a time of 8mins 18.96secs.

Henry will now get back into heavier training to prepare for this summer's outdoor season.

                                                       WOKINGHAM HALF MARATHON
Ryde Harriers' Matt Sharp, of Cowes, and Chris Newnham, both had great races in the popular Wokingham Half Marathon. 

In a field of more than 3,000 runners, Matt was quickly into his stride and, at the two-mile point, was isolated in third. 

Matt ran consistently well as he moved into second — getting closer to leader Scott Cousins as he passed ten miles in exactly 50 minutes.

Isle of Wight County Press: Matt Sharp on the podium with the mayor of Wokingham. Matt Sharp on the podium with the mayor of Wokingham. (Image: Contributed)

With just over a mile to go he had reduced the lead again but ran out of road as Cousins crossed the line in 65 min 10 sec. Matt was still running strong to finish in a very fast time of 65min 43 sec.

Chris, who only took up the sport 18 months ago, finished with a PB of 1.13.09 for 38th place.

  • This weekend, Ryde Harriers training partners, Charlie Metcalfe and Holly Newton, will represent Hampshire in the South of England Inter-counties 20-Mile Road Championships, staged in Essex.