Henry McLuckie, a member of the Great Britain cross country team, had an important role in securing the best medal tally in the history of the European Cross Country Championships as GB easily topped the medal table.

With racing on the course on the Saturday, plus four races on the Sunday prior to the Under 23 championships, the Laken Park circuit on the outskirts of Brussels was a complete mud bath.

The 7km race was fast from the start but Henry ran sensibly and tucked in as the field negotiated the first short circuit before pushing forward into a position not too far behind the leaders.

By the halfway point the field was well spread out with athletes trying to find some firmer ground, particularly on the long starting hill. 

Henry found it tough going but battled on.

Despite finishing in a disappointing 57th place the Great Britain Under 23 team ran well as a team to take the gold medals with teammate Will Barnicoat taking the individual title.

This was a repeat performance from the team who took the title as under 20s in Dublin in 2021.

Henry will now head to altitude in Falls Creek, north west of Melbourne Australia, to prepare for next year’s track season.