Mason taking it in his stride

I DID IT: High Crompton runner Mason Shoel wins the Bupa Mini-Great Manchester Run. Inset: Mason takes a breather while showing off his medal and trophy. Pictures by Andrew Schofield.

ATHLETICS:

SCHOOLBOY Mason Shoel put his best foot forward to clinch victory in the Bupa Mini-Great Manchester Run.

The energetic eight-year-old finished first, recording a time of five minutes and nine seconds.

The St Joseph’s pupil, who rarely trains and doesn’t even belong to a club, led for virtually the entire 1.5kms.

Proud parents Greg and Lynne watched the win with delight.

Lynne said: “Mason is a good runner so it wasn’t a massive shock to see him win, but he was up against some good opponents who probably get a bit more practice.

“He does cross-country for his school, which he loves but he doesn’t attend a club and isn’t training much.

“After the race he was approached to join Oldham and Royton Harriers.

“But we will have to see what happens, he just loves cross-country and road running so if he wants to carry on taking it in his stride, there will be no pressure from us.”

Steve Hill, deputy headteacher at St Joseph’s, said: “Everyone at the school is so proud of Mason for this fantastic achievement, he gave it absolutely everything on the day.

“He is talented so we expected him to do well but all you can ask is that a child does his or her best. The fact he actually came first is just brilliant for Mason and for the school.”

St Joseph’s took more than 40 children to the popular event, with Hill keen to hammer home the importance of exercise among young people.

He added: “At the end of the day, if these kids are out running and competing instead of sitting at home playing on the computer, it can only be a good thing.

“Positive results are always welcome but what’s much more important is enjoying the experience and getting some exercise.”