Matt Fayers won the South of England Under 20 800m final at Lee Valley indoor arena on Sunday 15th January 2012. There was always pressure to perform as Matt’s improvements are now well noted and acknowledge reports Stefan Dokic.
Two and a half hours earlier Matt had to win his heat to automatically qualify. He did this in 1.58 with a 100m kick to pass his challenger. Having noted the opposition Matt didn’t want a slow race so the tactics were clear in his mind.
As soon as the gun went off Matt went to the front and led the pack through 200m in a low 28 sec. Having settled Matt let the others jostle for pole position. With the lead changing Matt tucked in the pack at 600m. With the pace increasing local rival Ben Waterman of ESM took the lead. At 150m to go Ben picked up the pace to create a gap but Matt responded immediately. In pursuit of Ben’s burst Matt closed the gap and at 50m went on his shoulder. Matt’s noted finish was evident as he edged Ben in an exciting finish of 1.55.1 to 1.55.6.
Watch more video of 2012 Southern Indoor Championships Part 1 on www.athleticos.org
Matt travels next to Cardiff for the Welsh Championships at the end of the month. In a straight race it’s going to be a fast race with a confident Matt as one of the favourites.
Results here.
Hillingdon AC had a number of other competitors at these champs. If anyone would like to send me a report please do so.