24th October 2007

Chiba Choices Announcement

24 October 2007

 

A combination of youthful talent and Olympic experience will fill the Norwich Union Great Britain and Northern Ireland team for the Chiba Ekiden next month.

 

Olympic marathon fourth placer Jon Brown (Sheffield) and Nick McCormick (Morpeth) will compete over 10km and 5km stages respectively, whilst Chris Davies (Telford), who clocked the fastest stage at the National Road Relays, will take the remaining 10km slot.

 

Mo Farah (Newham and Essex Beagles) will not compete following a groin strain that has prevented him returning to training as quickly as hoped after his end of season break. Consequently he has reluctantly withdrawn from the Ekiden team to ensure he is in the best possible shape for the forthcoming cross-country season.

 

Sophie Morris (Windsor Slough Eton & Hounslow) who clocked the second fastest stage at the National Road Relays behind Steph Twell, will race over the 7.2km stage, joining the pre-selected Kate Reed (Bristol and West) and Emily Pidgeon (Gloucester AC) who will each run 5km stages.

 

Spencer Barden, UK Athletics Senior Coordinator for Endurance said:

 

“The Chiba Ekiden has always been a highly competitive race, but this year’s new mixed team format will be extremely challenging for the team.

 

“It is a real boost to the Norwich Union GB & NI team that Jon Brown and Nick McCormick have made themselves available, and it is great to see Chris Davies returning to form after recent injuries.

 

“Sophie Morris is deserving of her place after an excellent run in Sutton Park and alongside Kate and Emily will ensure the women’s half of the team keep the pressure up on the men.”

 

The travelling reserves for the trip to Japan who will compete in a 5000m track race are Rachel Townend (Winchester) and Dave Webb (Leeds)

 

Norwich Union Great Britain & Northern Ireland team for Chiba Ekiden, Japan Friday 23 November 2007

 

10km     Jon Brown

10km     Chris Davies

5km       Nick McCormick

5km       Emily Pidgeon

5km       Kate Reed

7.2km    Sophie Morris

 

Travelling Reserves: Rachel Townend and Dave Webb