So what do you say about a young man who goes out to represent his country with the mindset of making the race an honest one, no sitting and kicking on the last lap. Gareth Hadfield competed on the last day of the PanAm Junior Championships in the 3000m Steeplechase in Miramar, Florida. Gareth took the early lead and then settled into his own pace and rhythm. At this point he was passed by two other athletes. This was great for Gareth, right up until he tripped over a stumbling American athlete and although he tried to gain his balance, his body hit the ground hard. Gareth jumped to his feet to now find himself passed by the lead field and sitting in eighth place. Over the next 1,000m Gareth worked hard to regain his 3rd place position. It was a tough run with the heat and humidity (40C +) and working that hard… When the two lead runners broke away in the final 800m, Gareth found himself with no gear to go to.. they were used up getting back into the race… Gareth had worked hard to get to that position and that is where he remained for the rest of the race.Gareth, despite all the pitfalls mentioned above still ran a good time and took home a Bronze medal for Canada, Calgary and Caltaf. Outstanding effort and a truly gutsy performance.
(photo by Don Hadfield)
