ATHLETICS: Kimpton inspires England on his international debut

Luton AC’s Ian Kimpton gained his first international vest when he was selected to run for England at the Lillebaelt Half Marathon in Denmark earlier this month.
Ian Kimpton in action at the London MarathonIan Kimpton in action at the London Marathon
Ian Kimpton in action at the London Marathon

The 28-year-old finished second in 65.24mins behind Thijs Nijhuis (65.11) to help lead the England team to victory.

Kimpton had only just completed the London Marathon, where he was the second fastest British runner, clocking 2.15.51hrs.

He was delighted to post such an impressive time too, saying: “I was thrilled to be representing England in my first international race at any distance.

“The weather was, unfortunately, pretty bad; strong winds and rain as an early injection of pace led to a pack of three separating off the front – myself and two Danish runners.

“I led most of the way up to 17k, dropping one of the Danes at around halfway with a change of pace – but I wasn’t able to respond when the other Danish runner made a move with 4k to go.

“I went into the race without any particular goal in terms of time, just trying to enjoy racing for England.

“It was good for my experience and should help in my development towards being selected for a Great Britain team.”

With Kimpton already selected for the World Half Marathon Championship in Cardiff, UK Athletics have just set a 2.14hrs marathon standard time for Olympic selection for Rio de Janeiro in 2016, which must be on his agenda.

He is coached by former Olympian Tony Simmons at Venue 360, whose experience is unquestionable, having himself run a 2.12hr marathon at Sandbach in 1978 and set a world best time for the half marathon of 62.47mins at Welwyn Garden City in 1978.

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