Harrogate's Simon Bordewich Secures Second National Indoor Athletics Title
Running sensation Simon Bordewich has claimed his second national title at the prestigious England Athletics Indoor National Championships. The event was held at the English Institute of Sport in Sheffield, where the 16-year-old from Ripon Grammar School showcased his exceptional talent and determination.
Dominant Performance Amidst Challenges
Following hard-won heats, where Simon recorded the fastest time by more than a second, he faced a significant hurdle in the under-17 400m final. During the race, he experienced a collision with another athlete on the bend, yet he managed to dominate the competition by overtaking on the final straight.
Simon reflected on the intense race, stating, "It was tough. I had to run a second quicker than the other finalists to qualify. After the first 200m, I had a collision with another athlete on the bend, meaning I was forced to overtake on the final straight."
Background and Future Ambitions
The young athlete, who runs with Harrogate Harriers and previously held the English Schools national 300m title, is now setting his sights on the outdoor championships this summer. He aims to vie for the national 400m crown and ultimately compete for England on the international stage.
Simon shared his goals, saying, "In the outdoor season ahead, I am aiming to medal at the English school championships and hopefully be selected to run for England at international championships."
Overcoming Adversity and Training Regimen
Injury prevented Simon from defending his national title last year, but he has made a strong comeback. Earlier this year, he confirmed his return to form by winning the northern indoor 400m title. Hailing from Burton Leonard, the Year 11 student first discovered his passion for running as a youngster when he joined Ripon’s parkrun at Fountains Abbey.
To maintain his peak performance, Simon trains three times a week at the Leeds Beckett University athletics track. Additionally, he balances his athletic pursuits by playing rugby for his school and Ripon Rugby Club, showcasing his versatility and dedication to sports.
This victory not only highlights Simon's resilience and skill but also positions him as a promising talent in British athletics, with the potential to achieve even greater successes in the future.
