Wirral athlete Joe Wigfield has been selected to represent Team GB and Northern Ireland for the 2023 World Athletics Cross Country Championships in Australia this month.
The Championships represent the pinnacle of Cross Country competition.
And Wigfield’s inclusion in the squad is a proud moment for the athlete and his Wirral AC club.
The 23-year-old described his pride in his inclusion for a World event.
“I’m made up to be part of this team, to be able to show off my ability on the world stage. It will be a great achievement for myself and then to push further on to many more events,” he told Merseysportlive.
Wirral AC has been the home of Wigfield since he joined at the age of 11.
“The club have always supported me through all competitions, whether it’s been for myself or part of the team, they have nurtured me throughout,” he added.
Wirral A.C’s General Secretary Vicky Cowan has praised Wigfield for the achievement.
“It probably goes without saying probably but we are immensely proud of him,” she said.
“Even now he’s reached the dizzy heights of the world championships, but he still trains with us and competes at some of the more local events as well.
“He’s a real inspiration for not just some of our younger athletes but actually our older athletes as well.”
Wigfield hopes his success can act as motivation for those coming through behind him.
“I hope so, I remember coming to the club seeing people of all ages running around the track and looking up to them.
“If people are looking up to me as a role model, I have been doing the right things. The younger children can look at my success and hopefully take inspiration for themselves and create their own.”
The Championships set off on February 18 and with many keen Wirral-based eyes likely to be watching the action down under.
(Images courtesy of Wirral AC)
