Last year, Che Richards, topped the rankings in the long jump in Trinidad and Tobago with an impressive jump of 7.53m.
The 19-year-old was in fine form on Saturday (Jan 27) equalling his personal best performance. He produced the 7.53m performance at the Scottish Senior championships in Glasgow’s indoor Emirates Arena stadium.
On his 6th and final jump, Richards leapfrogged Shane Howard into first position with his best jump of the day.
While Howard also posted a 7.53m jump, Richards took the gold medal as his second best jump of 7.42m was 5cm further than Howard’s effort.
After the event, Richards admitted via social media that he was “still adjusting to indoor long jumping but it’s all good” and was optimistic about the coming season.
“Thanking God for his many blessings! Walked away with a win today! Walked away having jumped this time and MOST importantly, walked away healthy to continue to improve. Ended last season with 7.53m and started this season with 7.53m!”
Richards leapt to glory at the indoor venue an hour away from Edinburgh University where he is reading French and Law.
It was a marked improvement from his debut in both indoor and UK athletics a fortnight ago at the Scottish National Open also held at the Emirates Arena. The Trinidadian ended up with three no jumps.
Also in his sights for the rest of the indoor season, include the Scottish University Championships, the British University Championships as well as an invitation to take part in the British Indoor Championships in Sheffield next month.
