Goosnargh athletics star in bid for Beijing
GOOSNARGH athletics star Helen Clitheroe has set a new national record in the 3,000 steeplechase in her quest to gain a place in the UK's Olympic squad for a second time.
Helen, 34, left British number one Barbara Parker for dust at Birmingham's Alexander Stadium as she took gold in the UK Championships and Olympic Trials in an impressive time of 9.36.98m.
The Preston Harrier and former leisure centre assistant and lifeguard has competed in dozens of domestic, European and World Championships, as well as the Sydney Olympics eight years ago when she reached the semi-finals.
She said: "I am delighted with the win. It is a massive relief.
"We are all under so much pressure this weekend so it is great to come out and win it.
"I didn't even think about the record, I just ran free and it is great to get it.
"I had already got the qualifying time for Beijing and have done all I can to be selected. I have got the time, got the British record and won the trials, so I hope my place is secured."
In 2006, Helen returned from the Melbourne Commonwealth Games having just missed out on a bronze medal in the 1,500m - coming fourth in 4:06.81 - five milliseconds off the medal.
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Last Updated:
16 July 2008 4:55 PM
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Source:
n/a
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Location:
Longridge
