Phoebe Gill’s incredible 2023 season continued as she claimed a Commonwealth Youth Games gold medal in the 800m.
The 16-year-old, on her international debut representing England, clocked a stunning 2:02.30 to take the title in the Caribbean.
It’s the quickest time by any British under-17 female for 46 years, when Jo White – who holds the under-17 national record – recorded 2:02.00.
Gill also leapfrogged Jess Warner-Judd on the under-17 800m all-time UK list.
It’s the first time Gill has dipped below the 2:03 mark.
“It was such an amazing race,” she told England Athletics. “I was a bit worried at first because it was so hot and being from England we’re not really used to that weather. I was against such a phenomenal field of athletes and I think we all pushed each other and I’m really happy with how it came out.”
Last month, Gill ran a scintillating 2:03.12 to win the English Schools inter girls title in Birmingham, the third time she had recorded 2:03 in the distance in as many months.
Phoebe Gill (Andy Cox)
“It’s been a great season so far,” she told AW, in an exclusive chat with her at the Alexander Stadium on July 1.
“After cross country I was left with a bit of a calf injury. I started the 800ms to build some speed up for the 1500m and I’ve been consistent. Running 2:03 was a good time.
“I’ve always been a swimmer and that’s helped with the running. My PE teacher at primary school told me to go to a friendly cross country meet and I found out I was pretty good. I started with that and then transitioned to the track. The stamina you get from it is great.”
Gill also took apart Warner-Judd’s 12-year-old under-17 1500m record of 4:14.21 at the BMC Watford Gold Standard meet on July 12.
The 16-year-old clocked 4:11.96, more than two seconds quicker than the previous mark.
Safe to say, Gill has taken her running to another level this season.
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