Emma stars for England in trail race

Following a strong and consistent track season, Macready represented England in the tough trail race and completed the undulating course in 42min 19sec.

The race is around the lakes and forests of Betws-y-Coed, the gateway to Snowdonia.

Some of Britain’s finest trail runners took part in the race, with England’s Carl Hardman first home in 35-34, closely followed by team-mates Tom Merson (36-25) and Gary Priestly (36-48).

England also dominated the women’s race as Kendal’s Sarah Tunstall won in 40-25, closely followed by Al Lavender (41-17) and Macready.

Macready, 34, who has been with Harriers for three years, said: “It was brilliant and my selection was based on my performances in the 3,000m steeplechase this year, where I’ve had some good results and won the bronze medal at the Nationals.

“The race itself had a 3k climb just 400 metres into it, which was quite large and the race was quite technical at times.

“When you went down the hills, it was really steep and it’s very different to what I normally do but it was a really good event and I loved taking part.”

It was the third time Macready has represented England, after she raced in 10k events in September and November, 2012.

Macready followed up the race in Wales by winning the women’s race in the Gosport half marathon last weekend. She won in 1hr 18min 54sec as she came home 55th overall.

Macready is now beginning to look towards next year, with cross country races now her main focus for the remainder of this year.

She said: “The rest of the season is preparing for next year, for the South of England Championships and the Nationals.

“I’ll get some solid training in now and I’m really looking forward to next year and getting another season done in the steeplechase.”