Veteran athlete secures gold for GB

12:10pm Sunday 7th September 2008

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AN ATHLETE from St Albans proved he still has a spring in his step at 35 after winning gold in the 100-metre sprint at the European Masters Games.

Mark Collins, thought to be passed his prime as a runner, demonstrated he could still outrun more than most when he dashed to the finish line in 11.3 seconds securing a sweet victory against fellow veteran athletes and a gold medallion.

And it seems the 35-year-old of Park Street Lane continued Great Britain’s trend in fetching golds; his win came just days after athletes returned from the Beijing Olympics with bling abound.

Competitors from across Europe, aged 35 and above, demonstrated their sporting ability at this year’s games, hosted in Malmo, Sweden over the past week. The closing ceremony was held today.

Mark, a member of Luton Athletics Club and headteacher of a school near Radlett, said: “It’s a big achievement. I have worked hard and trained hard, it’s nice to realise what you’re working for.

“Athletics has been my passion for a number of years. I have been competing in athletics since I was a teen. Reaching 35 and competing internationally is something I have been building up to over the last three years.

“I’m pleased I maintained my enthusiasm to 35. My gold medal is testament to that enthusiasm, the fact I have kept going is a big part of my success.”