Ellis Cross will be relishing the chance of competing for England this weekend in the Iris Cross Cup in Brussels. The Staffordshire middle distance star will be put to the test against some of the finest junior distance runners across North West Europe. He will be competing in the Junior Mens 6k race on Sunday.

Progression has been Key to Ellis’ Success

Bringing your times down over the shorter distances no doubt lowers your times over the longer distances. You can see an example of this with Ellis’ 3000m times. In 2014 when Ellis broke the 2 and 4 minute barrier over the 800m/1500m respectively, you can see how much his 3000m time dropped. Increasing the volume marginally every 12 months is great for the body to adapt and avoid any unnecessary injuries.

Prediction for 2016

If Ellis can bring his 800m time down by another couple of seconds, this will enable him to run around 8:23-8:25 this coming track season. However, you have to get the right balance with physical capacities; speed endurance and endurance. Ellis having recently moved to St Mary’s, is now training under endurance coach Mick Wood. He will definitely have his work cut out!

We wish Ellis the best of luck this weekend.

For more information on the Iris Cross Cup including timetable and startlists please visit WWW.SPORT.BE