Tyrone's Nick Griggs claims under-23 European Cross Country gold
Co Tyrone runner Nick Griggs produced a dominating performance to take the gold medal in the men's under-23 race at the European Cross Country Championships in Portugal on Sunday.
The former Cookstown High School head boy finished in a time of 17 minutes and 47 seconds clear of France's Aurelien Radja.
In the process, Griggs lead Ireland to team gold ahead of France and Spain and created history by becoming the first Irish man to win the individual title.
It was a popular win as the 20-year-old narrowly missed out winning last year.
In a Facebook Cookstown High School said they are “immensely proud of former Head Boy Nick Griggs, who produced a dominant performance to win gold in the Men’s Under-23 race at the European Cross Country Championships in Portugal.
"Nick’s superb run also helped lead Team Ireland to U23 team gold, a fantastic achievement on the European stage. His dedication and success continue to inspire our whole school community. Well done, Nick — we couldn’t be prouder!”
Griggs is a former member of Mid Ulster Athletics Club and received his early training from club coach Barrie Holmes.
Holmes congratulated him on a well deserved win.
In a post on the club’s Facebook page he reminded him to call in for a cup of tea with them the next time he is home!
SDLP Mid Ulster Councillor Malachy Quinn posted: “Great Sunday morning watching local lad Nick Griggs winning gold in the U-23 Cross Country! He has put so much work (in) to get to this point and I think we all know its still only the start for him.”