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Lewes AC Trio Earn England Athletics Masters Call-Up for Great North 10K
We’re excited to announce that three of our outstanding Masters athletes, Emily Anderson, Rachel Hillman, and Karin Divall, coached by LAC Endurance Coach Dave Leach have been selected to represent England Athletics at the prestigious AJ Bell Great North 10 K in Gateshead this July.
Emily Anderson and Rachel Hillman will don the England vest in the Women’s 35–39 (V35) age category, while Karin Divall will compete in the Women’s 65–69 (V65) category.
Their selection follows England Athletics’ stringent qualification process as part of its Master’s programme. It recognises athletes aged 35 and above and offers them national representative opportunities in 5K, 10K, half marathon, and marathon events.
The programme emphasises fair competition and celebrates lifelong athletic commitment through five‑year age bands and qualifying standards or top-three placings. Those chosen earn the coveted England Masters vest and a chance to compete on high-profile stages.
About the AJ Bell Great North 10K
Held annually in Gateshead, the AJ Bell Great North 10K is one of the North East’s largest 10K road races, attracting competitive elite and recreational runners across the UK. The route, starting and finishing near the iconic Gateshead International Stadium, traverses landmarks such as the Millennium Bridge, the Sage, and the Tyne Bridge.
Mastering the distance at any age
“We are delighted for Emily, Rachel, and Karin. Their achievement highlights the club’s commitment to supporting runners and track and field athletes of all ages. We wish them the best as they represent the club and England Athletics,” said Club Chair Philip Westbury. “It’s also a proud moment for the club to see athletes coached, mentored and supported by Dave Leach, our senior endurance coach, reaching this level. Dave has helped light up the running scene across Sussex and beyond, as evidenced by the fantastic results that keep coming. We’re fortunate to have his leadership both at Lewes AC and in his wider role as Sussex Athletics Association President.”
Race Details
- Event: AJ Bell Great North 10K
- Date: Sunday 6th July 2025
- Location: Newcastle
About the England Athletics Masters Programme
Established to recognise road runners aged 35 and over, the programme offers structured competition pathways, qualification opportunities, and international representation. Participants must meet age-grade times or place in the top tiers of qualifying races to earn selection.
Want to Improve Your Running Performance with Lewes AC?
Lewes AC offers various training sessions to help boost your performance at road and trail running events:
- Strength and Conditioning: Join Toby on Monday nights to improve core strength and stability. Sign up here.
- Track Sessions: Fine-tune your technique, pacing, and endurance on Thursday evenings, or try beginner track sessions on Saturday mornings. Sign up here.