Dobson Takes Win in Germany
In his first overseas International Competition for GB Juniors, Charlie Dobson once again showed true style and determination to claim a top podium place at the Bauhaus Junioren Gala, Mannheim, Germany, 23-24 June.
Following his performance at the National Championships just a week ago, where he was pipped into silver place in the U20m 200m, Dobson was offered both the A string Relay and an individual 200m slot at this prestigious event.
Completing his final A level on the Friday morning meant he missed travelling out with the team, joining them at Midnight local time after a delayed flight.
Mannheim was a key test for the British Athletics Futures 4x100m Relay Team who had only competed once before, but with a men’s outfit that is looking at its sharpest for several years, having clocked the best time set by an Under 20 team since 2012, winning the Loughborough International in 39.53. They didn’t disappoint, taking a win in 39.83s – which holds their position as third on the overall rankings behind both the England and Great Britain Senior Teams.
On Day Two, Dobson just had the 200m to focus on. Drawn in lane four in the last of four timed heats, he looked nervous waiting between a Slovak and a Swede. He soon caught the athlete from Sweden cruising past him on the bend and then consolidated his lead to win in a time of 20.75s, .39 seconds ahead of the Swede who came second overall. This was also the 5th time he has achieved the World Junior Qualifying standard this season.
“The track was weird, part soft, part hard. But it was great fun and a good experience to be part of such a strong GB team. Steve had said to go for it, it if I felt I could – so I did!”
Speaking earlier in the week, Team Leader for the British juniors, Trevor Painter, said: “We’ve selected a strong team for the Mannheim Gala and it is another key meeting in our calendar as we prepare for next month’s World Junior Championships in Tampere. Building on the performances from the England U20 Championships at the weekend, it also allows for athletes to consolidate their preparations ahead of the World Juniors.”
GB Selectors are meeting today to decide on the final team to go to Finland.