Jake Wilson wins gold at Cheshire Cross Country Championships

The 13-year-old Vale Royal athlete, who was just as pleased with the team’s gold medal as his individual honour, finished eight seconds clear of Wirral’s William Sutcliffe at Birchwood Forest Park in Warrington.

“It feels amazing to win. On the second lap I decided to push it because I felt really strong. In the last 500m I felt great and coming in to win again felt great,” said Wilson from Holmes Chapel.

> VIDEO: How the men’s race was won

> WATCH: Youngsters tackle the Cheshire Cross Country Championships

> VIEW: 180 pictures in our gallery of Saturday’s event

> FOOTAGE: See the women’s race unfold

> VIDEO: Vale Royal pair share in under 20s success

> WATCH: Interview with under 15s girls' winner Holly Weedall

“Originally I’d planned to take a nice and easy start, go with the pace and then see how I felt on the second lap and it worked well.

Jake Wilson hot on the heels of his clubmate Patrick Griffith. Picture: Mike Boden

“I didn’t lead all the way round. My friend Patrick, who runs for the same club, helped me to pace it. We used each other to push our running.

“It’s especially great for the team. I’m very happy that we all did well. We all pushed each other. We wanted a medal and we got it.”

Jake Wilson, Patrick Griffith and Dylan Carney strike under 15s gold in the Cheshire Cross Country Championships

Counting for the team alongside Wilson were third-placed Patrick Griffith and Dylan Carney, who crossed the line sixth.

Wilson is aiming high in a sport that he is firmly committed to.

“I really enjoy athletics. It’s fun,” he said.

“I put a lot of time into training. I train Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday at my club.

Jake Wilson approaches the finish line on Saturday. Picture: Mike Boden

“I used to play football as well but I gave that up last year. I still enjoy a game when out with my friends.

“I’d like to go high in athletics – the Olympics. I dream of it. I definitely want to aim there and get there.”