26 June 2008

Mile sensation Andy Baddeley says he can take nothing for granted at next month’s Aviva National Championships in Birmingham, despite his early season form.

The 26-year-old has been one of a number of plus points for British athletics this summer, with a memorable victory in Oslo’s Dream Mile followed up by gold over 3000m in last weekend’s European Cup.

His next major challenge will come at the Aviva National Championships in Birmingham from July 11 to 13 where he believes the strength in depth of British male distance running will be illustrated.

Baddeley said: “The Aviva National Championships are one of the most important events of a very important year for me. I will be looking to really test myself in what will be a vital stepping stone towards Beijing.

"The trials will be a great occasion, the competition should be tight providing a good rehearsal for Beijing.  Birmingham is a notoriously quick track and famous for a great atmosphere so I can’t wait to compete there in front of a big crowd.”

Meanwhile Baddeley has also been confirmed for the historic Emsley Carr Mile at the Aviva London Grand Prix on July 25 and 26.

The Crystal Palace meet will see him face reigning world champion Bernard Lagat of the USA, and world and Commonwealth medallist Craig Mottram of Australia.

He said: "I am looking forward to competing against Bernard and Craig at the Emsley Carr Mile next month, they are my main rivals and it will be great to gauge how my preparation is going before we all head to Beijing.

"Having recently won the Dream Mile in Oslo I am full of confidence ahead of Birmingham and London and would love to add the Emsley Carr Mile to my name which would give me a unique double in an Olympic year."

Tickets for the Aviva National Championships at the Alexander Stadium in Birmingham on 11,12 & 13 July 2008 are available by phone on 08000 556 056 or online at www.ukathletics.net