Photo by James Rhodes in Rome
European Indoor Championships silver medallist Neil Gourley overcame jetlag to deliver a very cool and controlled performance in qualifying for Wednesday’s 1500m final in Rome.
The 29-year-old – who missed the indoor season due to injury – proved he was in incredible shape with a superb mile personal best at the Prefontaine Classic on 25 May (3:47.74), his first significant outing since the 2023 World Championships.
A return to championship racing in Rome presented a different challenge for Gourley and he passed the test with ease, staying out of trouble in the early stages of a slow heat before putting himself in a good position to kick as Spain’s Adel Mechaal pushed the pace.
Neil eventually pulled away with ease to take the win in 3:44.05 and now faces another final against Jakob Ingebrigtsen and all-comeres in Rome on Wednesday evening.
‘It went fine so I can sleep between now and the final,’ he said.
‘That was the last thing coach said, ‘Don’t fall asleep’; it was an interesting choice of words, but I definitely could have.
‘Tactically I’m happy with where I put myself. It was really about just being ready to respond when somebody inevitably went – it was just a case of being aware of anyone making a big move.
‘While the Diamond League circuit is really valuable, this is somewhere where I can experience proper racing, which I just did, and to make sure I execute tactically.’
+++
Tags:
European Champs, Neil Gourley, Rome
CLICK HERE to Read the Full Original Article at Scottish Athletics…