Photo by Sam Mellish/British Athletics
Josh Kerr claimed the third global title of his career with another World Indoors master-class.
The inspirational Scot, who has medals from two Olympics as well, successfully defended his Men’s 3000m from Glasgow two years ago at the 2026 edition in Torun, Poland.
Added to an outdoor 1500m title from Budapest in 2023, Josh has delivered three wonderful golden moments in what has become a truly stellar career.
And what a redemption story, too, after limping home in agony – and in last place – at the World Champs 1500m final last summer. He has had just one race in the interim.
There appeared to be danger right through the field as the athletes lined up, but Josh ran the perfect race, covering moves early on and then gradually turning up the heat until taking the lead just after the bell. He then was strong enough to hold off challenges in the home straight.
Josh won in 7:35.56 to win by 0.14 from American Cole Hocker. French athlete Yann Schrub was third for the bronze.
Congratulations to Josh, his family, coach Danny Mackey and all at Edinburgh AC involved in his development early in his career.
‘Today was very special, I took it for granted a couple of years ago,’ said Josh.
‘Obviously winning in front of a home crowd I thought there is nothing that can top it. But the relief of getting another win and being back on top is very special for me right now.
‘I have a lot family here to support and I owe it to them, and I ran the last 400m with passion. Last time I was in a speed suit was a few months ago, where I dragged my leg across the line. Today a lot of demons were cracked, a resilient story for me today.
‘Whenever I put on a national vest, no one else can prove what I can do apart from me.
‘It’s hard to wrap your head around it at times, but you just have to believe in yourself. I trust my coaching staff and my family, today’s performance shows them that their hard work doesn’t go unnoticed too.’
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Photo by Sam Mellish/British Athletics
Jemma Reekie featured in the Women’s 1500m following her British title success in Birmingham a few weeks earlier.
The Scot, silver medallist in the Women’s 800m at the World Indoors in Glasgow two year ago, was drawn in a tough heat and with only three certain to progress to the final duly finished in fourth place in 4:11.61.
‘It was a really messy race, I didn’t want to be at the front, but I ended up putting myself there,’ Jemma told British Athletics.
‘I know I am in good shape it is a shame the race didn’t reflect that, I just need to stay patient.
‘I got bumped and barged and I had to put my hand out to keep myself on my feet but that is the nature of 1500m running. I came here to get uncomfortable and learn, that is what happened. Unfortunately, it is not the result I wanted but lots to take from it and I will go away and get ready for the summer season.’
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Tags:
Jemma Reekie, Josh Kerr, Poland, World Indoors