Paul Given won his first ever open race with a narrow victory in Jarrow and Hebburn's Robin Hood multi-terrain race last night.
The 36-year-old Sunderland Harrier, after only three years in the sport, powered home with just one second to spare over Paul Besford.
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Sign up for free SAFC email updatesThe former Gateshead Harrier launched an almighty sprint within sight of the finish, but Given refused to give way after doing most of the donkey work over the extended course.
"I've have had four months of solid training after a run of injuries so I knew I was in good shape,'' said Given, who clocked 36.27.
"I felt strong and there was no way I was going to surrender the lead. I'm delighted to have won.''
In third place was the host club's Greg Ritchie in 38.07 and Chester-le-Street's Simon O'Donnell was fourth (38.09).
Sunderland Harrier Ingrid Hope was first W45 in 46.22.
The full article contains 185 words and appears in Sunderland Echo newspaper.
