BENNETT AND LINCOLN EARN PODIUM SPOTS AT EUROPEAN THROWING CUP

Chris Bennett (Andy Frost; Shaftesbury Barnet) and Scott Lincoln (Paul Wilson; City of York) reached the podium in their events at the European Athletics Throwing Cup, while Taylor Campbell (John Pearson; Windsor Slough Eton and Hounslow) finished fifth on a successful day for the throwers.

Bennett saved his best until the final round in the men’s hammer competition in Split, Croatia, as his effort of 75.36 metres saw him clinch second spot.

The 2016 Olympian had started with two throws in the 71m range before throwing 73.58m in round three which improved his overall position. With no improvement in the following two rounds, it all came down to his final attempt. His mark, which was just shy of his season best of 75.69m, saw him win the silver medal behind Turkey’s Esref Apak who threw a best of 75.99m to win. He also placed ahead of four-time world champion, Pawel Fajdek (POL) who was fourth.

Bennett said afterwards, “It was a good competition. I thought I could throw far today, the conditions were good, so I thought I could probably finish around fifth or sixth. So, to finish second is really good. I am really happy to be able to respond in the last round so I’ll take second place.

“I just focused on the basics, just don’t overcomplicate it. I’m happy that I can hold it together for six throws. I’m pretty happy right now – I’m smiling under the mask right now.

“I’m in shape to throw big. I believe I can go 77-78m, so to throw 75m in a good competition and be able to respond to people is really good.”

Taylor Campbell, who arrived in Croatia on the back of a PB of 75.82m a couple of weeks earlier, was again in strong form, placing fifth in the men’s hammer behind Bennett. After opening with four fouls, a mark measuring at 73.23m – on his fifth attempt – was his best to seal a top five position.

The men’s shot put followed the entertaining hammer contest on Saturday, and Britain’s Scott Lincoln continued the impressive showing from the British contingent.

His opening throw came in at 20.25m which was ultimately the furthest mark of his series. With three further attempts in the high 19 metres, the City of York athlete showed consistency, and he was rewarded with a podium finish. He sealed the bronze medal behind Andrei Rares Taoder of Romania and Francisco Belo of Portugal.

“It’s frustrating – I was very close to a throw which would have been very nice. But it’s good to come abroad again and compete against some of the very best.”

Results