Under the direction of Kilbarchan coach Jon Bigg, Jemma Reekie lit up the Microplus UK Athletics Indoor Championships by winning the 800m, setting a Championship record and setting the second-fastest time in the world this year. Her incredible performance earned her a spot at the next international tournament in Glasgow in addition to guaranteeing her victory. Reekie won her first UK indoor championship since 2019 at the sold-out Championships in Birmingham after winning the Lievin World Athletics Indoor Tour Gold event recently. She finished with a stunning performance of 1:58.24 minutes.
Joining Reekie in the spotlight were other outstanding athletes such as Laura Muir, Laviai Nielsen, and Georgia Bell. Muir claimed victory in the women’s 3000m, while Nielsen triumphed in the 400m, and Bell clinched a brilliant gold in the 1500m. These accomplished athletes, along with women’s high jump winner Morgan Lake, are now setting their sights on the World Indoor Championships in Glasgow next month.
The day also witnessed remarkable performances from Piers Copeland and Jack Higgins, who both surged from behind to seize gold in the men’s 1500m and 800m, respectively. Ama Pipi emerged victorious in the women’s 200m, adding to her previous 400m crown, while Amelia Campbell and Scott Lincoln claimed the women’s and men’s shot put titles. In a non-medal achievement, Katarina Johnson-Thompson achieved an outstanding indoor shot put personal best of 13.29m.
Reekie, reflecting on her impressive win, expressed her excitement for Glasgow and emphasized her goal of securing her first senior medal, ideally gold. Muir, after her victory in the women’s 3000m, shared her anticipation for the World Indoor Championships in Glasgow and considered it a significant step towards her ultimate goal of success in Paris.
The competition also showcased the prowess of Laviai Nielsen in the women’s 400m, where she overcame stiff competition from her sister Lina. In the women’s 1500m, Georgia Bell displayed strategic brilliance to secure her place in the World Indoor Championships. Morgan Lake’s victory in the women’s high jump further added to the day’s success stories.
Scott Lincoln, continuing his excellent form, clinched the men’s shot put title and expressed his ambition to chase the British record. Piers Copeland’s and Jack Higgins’ victories in the men’s 1500m and 800m showcased their determination and strategic prowess.
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In other events, James West and Lee Thompson claimed gold in the men’s 3000m and 400m, respectively. Ama Pipi, in a thrilling race, edged out Success Eduan in the women’s 200m. The men’s 400m final witnessed Lee Thompson securing the UK title after facing intense competition from Ben Higgins.
The day concluded with outstanding performances in various disciplines, highlighting the depth of talent in British athletics. As athletes now shift their focus to the World Indoor Championships in Glasgow, the anticipation for more stellar achievements on the global stage continues to build.
