Mick has no peers

Mick Flatley: winner

ATHLETICS: SHAW athlete Mick Flatley produced a towering performance to lower his personal-best time by over 10 minutes and win the Blackpool Marathon.

The 40-year-old Middleton Harriers member saw off the challenge of over 1,000 other athletes in front of hundreds of spectators on Blackpool promenade.

After breaking the tape in 2 hours, 39 minutes, 43 seconds, Mick was presented with his winner’s medal and £150 in Sweat Shop vouchers.

Mick has twice had the distinction of being the leading Oldham runner in the Great North Run, but this was his biggest thrill.

He said: “The leader was over a minute clear at the 20-mile mark, but I just got my head down and tried to reel him in, which I did at 24 miles. After that, I wasn’t slowing down!

“I have had some great races, but to cross that finishing line first is special.”