Athletics: Tracey is hitting target

Aug 2 2007 Western Mail

TRACEY MORRIS last night admitted she’d achieved her season’s target after being named in Great Britain’s world championships squad to compete in Osaka.

The 39-year-old marathon runner has been named alongside fellow Welsh athlete Tim Benjamin in the party.

“It’s an absolute dream for me – three years ago I didn't even have a GB vest, now I’m off to the world championships,” said Morris.

“My target all season has been Osaka, so I’m pleased with the result.”

Morris won her first GB vest in 2004 at the Athens Olympics. Since then she has also competed in the European Championships and the Commonwealth Games.

Her appearance in Osaka next month will see Morris complete the full set of major championships.

“Since my GB debut in 2004, I’ve been to the Europeans, the Commonwealths, the Olympics and now the worlds,” she said.

“Now I’m able to complete all four major competitions, which is not bad going between the ages of 36 and 40.

“I’m no spring chicken so I’m just thoroughly pleased to have been given this chance.”

The women’s marathon is scheduled for the final day of the worlds on September 2.

Benjamin, who has struggled with injury all season, earned a spot in the 4x400m relay, but still hopes to prove himself to compete in the individual 400m event.

Fellow Welshmen David Greene (400m hurdles), Steven Davies (1500m), Tim Abeyie (200m) and Christian Malcolm (4x100m relay) still have a chance to qualify for the team.