byLarry Eder
Laura Muir and Jemma Reekie go 1,2 in Women’s 800m, photo by Diamond League AG
Elizabeth Bird sets British NR of 9:22.80 in the steeplechase in Monaco! photo by Diamond League AG
Stuart Weir did this column on Brit performances in Monaco. Some fine ones, in the 800m Women’s steeplechase women, women’s pole vault, as well as the men’s 800m and men’s 400m hurdles.
Brits in Monaco
Obviously, Laura Muir and Jemma Reekie stole the show with first and second in the 800 and a PR for each of them – Laura 1:56.73 and Jemma 1:56.96. Of course, it is all about the fast track and the new shoes! I think I am more in agreement with Shelly-Ann who replied to the journalist who asked her about shoes: “If I got you a pair of shoes like mine, would you run as fast as me? No? Perhaps there is more to it than the shoes then”. Laura’s achievement is considered in more detail at Laura Muir wins 800 at Herculis Monaco DL in 1:56.73 NR! – RunBlogRun
Holly Bradshaw was fourth in the pole vault with 4:70. She commented: “Always a pleasure to be in Monaco in that incredible stadium with its perfect conditions! It really hard not to have a good time so thank you Meet Herculis. Figuring and learning important stuff every outing, making sure that I am as ready as I can be for Tokyo”. It is an indication of how far Holly has come this year that one views 4.70 with a little disappointment.
Elizabeth Bird was seventh in the 3000m Steeplechase, running a GB national record of 9:22.80. A great time to run a PR, just a couple of weeks before the Olympics. Mark Pearce was 12th in the men’s race. I am sure he will be disappointed with 8:34.03 but it has been a great season for him, becoming British champion and previously running successive PRs to get within 2 seconds of the Olympic standard.
Eliott Giles was fifth in the 800 in 1:44.07, getting closer to sub1:44 when it matters. He was the first European home and finished ahead of Americans, Clayton Murphy, and Bryce Hoppel.
Chris McAlister was sixth in the 400 hurdles in 49.98.
