THERE is much more to runner Henry McLuckie than his name suggests, as he followed up his huge success at the English Schools Cross Country Championship by putting in the required leg-work to help his country’s team win the gold medal at the Home Countries International Cross Country event.

Competing against the best athletes from England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland, over a hilly 6km course at Wollaton Hall, Nottingham, the 15 year old came home sixth fastest intermediate in 20.17 — 41 seconds behind the winner.

Henry, with the leading group had, by the end of the first lap, seen it whittled down to six athletes, who continued to work together during the second lap and establish a good lead over the chasing pack.

As the pace increased on the third lap, Henry’s efforts over the previous fortnight meant he struggled to stay with the pace and gaps started to appear within the leading group.

His coach, Paul Simpson, said: “Henry, knowing that every place mattered in the team event, showed great heart and fighting spirit to finish strongly and ensure the England team claimed the gold medal.”

After the race, Henry said although the race did not go as he had hoped, it was a fantastic experience.