06 February 2013

After securing the European Indoor Championships qualification standard last weekend, Asha Philip (coach: Christine Bowmaker) has set her sights on a top two finish in the 60m at the British Athletics European Trials & UK Championships.

Philip, who won the World Youth 100m title in 2007, ran 7.24 at the Birmingham Games to send her to the top of the UK rankings for 2013, and will be considered one of the favourites at the EIS-Sheffield this weekend.

“I had a great start to the season last weekend securing the European Indoor qualifying time in Birmingham, and now my sights are set on making the team for Gothenburg with a top two finish.”

With a number of other athletes making impressive starts to their indoor campaigns, the 22 year old will be looking to eclipse her personal best of 7.19 set last year as she bids for European glory.

“The 60m in Sheffield is going to be really competitive with the likes of Montell (Douglas) in the field as well as Annabelle (Lewis) and Hayley (Jones) who have both had strong starts to the season.”

“I had a really good indoor season last year, and I’m now hoping to push on and go even better in 2013.”  

Christine Ohuruogu (Lloyd Cowan) will line up against Philip this weekend, as the Olympic 400m silver medallist steps down in distance to double up in the 60m and 200m in Sheffield. After a spell away from the track during off season, Ohurougu is looking forward to continuing her return to competitive action. 

“I’m doing a few indoor races this year to break up winter training. In Sheffield I will do the 60m and 200m as part of my preparation for the outdoor season. It’s always great to compete in front of a British crowd and get the buzz of racing against the sprinters.”

With a big year ahead for the 28 year old, which includes the World Championships in Moscow, Ohuruogu is hoping an indoor season will put her in good shape for the outdoors as she bids to win the world title for a second time.   

“I had a memorable 2012, winning World Indoor Championships relay gold and silver at the Olympic Games, and I’m looking for another big year in 2013.”

With Annabelle Lewis (Roger Walters) and Hayley Jones (Donald Moss) both running personal best times of 7.31 in January – just 0.01 seconds away from the qualification standard, and Montell Douglas (Daniel Naphtali) showing some promising early form, the battle to become the UK Champion is one that will be eagerly anticipated. 

Limited number of  tickets released for the British Athletics European Trials & UK Championships at EIS Sheffield this weekend. Don’t miss out, buy yours today!