Words by Ewan Somerville

It was a strong showing for Belgrave Harriers at the South of England indoor U20/senior championships, with claret and gold vests gracing the podium. 

More than 700 athletes gathered at Lee Valley Athletics Centre for the event on 1 and 2 February, each hoping to advance through the rounds and medal against stiff competition.

One Belle who did just that was Sian Harry, winning her 400m heat in 55.49 before striking gold in the final with 54.20 - a season's best, a top 20 UK time so far this year and more than one second clear of the chasers.

In the 800m - a four-lap affair on the 200m indoor track - Belgrave's Max Perez-Diaz secured bronze after clocking 1:53.46 in his quick heat. In the women's event, Bryony Wilson ran an impressive PB of 2:15.72 in her heat.

The 60m contest also saw strong Belgrave performances. Louisa Stoney progressed through the rounds to clock 7.68 seconds for fifth in the final. In the men's race, Sam Ige made it out of the heats to run 6.90 seconds in the semis, one of his fastest times of recent years.

In the field, Laura Darcey leaped 5.38m for a solid fifth place in the long jump.

Others used the champs as an opportunity to benefit from some quick races. Ewan Somerville ran 53.08 in the 400m as he continues to transition from middle distance back to sprints, while Simonetta Ifeji ran 8.52 in her 60m heat. 

With the ever-brief indoor season drawing to a close, our track and field athletes are turning their attention to the summer season which is fast approaching.

All images by Mark Hookway.