Tag Archives: World Masters

“Over the Moon,” Welsh does club and country proud

Colin Welsh in his GB & NI vest

Colin Welsh completed his World Masters adventure with an 11th place finish in the 1500m writes Bruce Hughes but after competing in two world finals, he’s understandably; “over the moon.”

The eight staging of the biennial indoor championships for veterans aged 35 and over, saw participants from every corner of the globe convene on Toruń, Poland for seven days of fierce competition.

The medieval Polish City, famous for its Museum of Gingerbread, was the destination for Teviotdale Harriers Welsh. This time racing in his Great British and Northern Ireland vest, he tested himself on the track against some seriously sharp and seasoned runners.

“The standard was obviously high,” explained Colin. “But to be qualify for two World finals at the same meeting and then be in the mix in those two finals, I’m over the moon.”

Four races in four days may have taken its toll but that’s exactly how Colin would want it; “On reflection, now the dust has settled and I’ve had a couple of pints (it’s important to rehydrate), my legs are in bits, my bodies in tatters but I wouldn’t change it for the world.

The only picture I could get from Colin

“It’s been an amazing experience and I’m already looking forward to Venice in September for the European Masters. I’m hoping for hotter weather though as its been snowing here.”

Not sure how much snow affects and indoor event, but Colin was very warm with his appreciation of everyone who offered encouragement whilst he’s been away; “support from home has been unreal and I would like to thank everyone for their messages.”


M35 800m Final 28th March 2019

  1. Aaron Brown (GBR) 1:58.70
  2. Jeremie Nattes (FRA) 1:58.76
  3. Artur Mroz (POL) 1:59.11

9. Colin Welsh (GBR) 2:02.31


M35 1500m Final 30th March 2019

  1. Roger Vila (ESP) 4:03.58
  2. Adel Hfaiedh (TUN) 4:04.16
  3. Jeremie Nattes (FRA) 4:04.23

11. Colin Welsh (GBR) 4:19.07

Another World Final For Welsh

Colin Welsh has secured a second World Masters finals spot with a gutsy run in todays 1500m first round.

Racing in a tight heat, Colin got his tactic’s spot on and with his teeth clenched he crossed the line fifth and secured one of the eight fastest loser spots.

Stopping the clock at 4:11.40, finishing just behind M35 800m gold medallist and fellow GB & NI runner, Aaron Brown, qualifying Colin eighth fastest of the 12 finalists.

“My plan was to just follow Aaron and that worked out great,” explained Colin.

There’s not much time for recovery as tomorrow mornings final is scheduled for a 09:46 start.

So what would an athlete do the night before a World final?: “Going out for tea at 8pm and then just back for a wee chill before an early start,” said Colin.


Welsh At the Worlds

The final of the M35 800m at the Indoor World Champs in Toruń, Poland featured Teviotdale Harriers Colin Welsh.

In a highly competitive race Colin Welsh couldn’t quite replicate his run from the heats but gave his all and finished 9th in 2:02.31.

Fellow Great Britain & Northern Ireland runner Aaron Brown (1:58.70) claimed Gold, improving on his Bronze from the outdoor World Masters in Malaga last September. France’s Jeremie Nattes (1:58.76) claimed silver with Artur Mroz (1:59.11) from Poland the bronze.

Reflecting on the race (a little tongue in cheek); “The spikes are back out the bin now that I’ve had time to think about it,” said Colin.

“I just didn’t perform and I am disappointed, but on the whole I have to be pleased. It’s been an amazing experience.”

Competition is not yet over for Colin as he’ll be back on the track again; “I’m also entered for the M35 1500m, so tonight I’ll rest up and get ready to go again tomorrow.”

Colin races in the second of tomorrows heats, with the first on track at 17:25. If he can navigate his way to the final, it will be on Saturday morning around 09:45.