Season’s best times for Eilidh Child and Lawrence Clarke in Diamond League meetings
University of Bath-based athletes Eilidh Child and Lawrence Clarke both set season’s best times during a busy week of IAAF Diamond League action.
European 400m hurdles champion Child clocked 54.84 to finish third in the Golden Gala in Rome on Thursday, then placed fourth at Sunday’s Birmingham Grand Prix in 55.14.
“It was quite close and I am happy technically, although it was quite windy,” said Child – coached by Malcolm Arnold at the Sports Training Village – after Sunday’s race, which was won by defending Diamond League champion Kaliese Spencer of Jamaica.
“I faded off the first hurdle but that is due to a lack of fitness as it is only my third race of the season. I ran well in Rome last week – I was happy with the race rather than the time.
“It is a busy year for me as I am planning my wedding as well. I am heading to Oslo Diamond League next [on Thursday], so I’ll be looking for another good race there.”
Clarke, who is also coached by Arnold, was also in action at the Alexander Stadium in Birmingham, finishing third to Cuba’s Orlando Ortega in 13.53.
Both Clarke and Child have been named in the British squad for the European Team Championships in Cheboksary, Russia from June 20-21.
