Scots runner Laura Muir to tackle iconic Dream Mile in Oslo
The 23-year-old took a brilliant victory in the Norwegian capital 12 months ago to underline her credentials as a world-class talent to be reckoned with.
With a women’s version of the classic race making its debut, the Olympic hopeful is likely to slice a huge margin off her previous personal best at the distance which is five minutes and 26 seconds – set as a young teenager in Grangemouth in 2007.
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Hide AdAnd Muir’s coach Andy Young believes the world championship finalist is ready to challenge for titles as Rio approaches.
“She’s been leaving me with my jaw on the ground in some of these sessions recently and I’ve seen her do some amazing stuff in the past,” he said.
“We’re not as focussed on personal bests or amazing times this year. I’m sure she may well be in PB shape. But it’s more important that we try and ensure we translate that form into a great performance in Rio. After all, she has already broken the four-minute barrier for 1500m. And having only just turned 23, there are plenty more years for PBs.”
Kenya’s three-time world champion Asbel Kiprop will go for a fifth Dream Mile win in the men’s race.
The Oslo Dream Mile is an iconic race which has attracted the world’s best and featured some blistering times. In 1980, Steve Ovett broke the world mile record in Oslo and five years later Steve Cram did the same during what was a golden period for British middle distance running.
Susan Partridge, meanwhile, has pulled out of the British team for next month’s European Championships in Amsterdam. The Oban-born veteran, who cited fitness concerns, will be replaced in the half-marathon by Jess Coulson.