Grandad is world running champion

An Epworth grandad is celebrating after running to success and winning a gold medal at the World Masters Athletics Championships.Â
Vic Shirley, on the central podium, aged 75, of Epworth, won a gold medal in the 5,000 metre run in his age category at the World Masters Athletics Championships.Vic Shirley, on the central podium, aged 75, of Epworth, won a gold medal in the 5,000 metre run in his age category at the World Masters Athletics Championships.
Vic Shirley, on the central podium, aged 75, of Epworth, won a gold medal in the 5,000 metre run in his age category at the World Masters Athletics Championships.

Vic Shirley, aged 75, recently travelled from his home in Epworth to Malaga to take part in the prestigious and represent Great Britain in the 5,000 metre race.

Of the 41 runners in his age category, who represented 20 countries, Vic took the top spot '“ completing the course in just 21 minutes and eight seconds and earning him the title of M75 World Champion.

Epworth grandad Vic Shirley completing the he Anna Verrco half marathon with his son John and grandson Bryce.Epworth grandad Vic Shirley completing the he Anna Verrco half marathon with his son John and grandson Bryce.
Epworth grandad Vic Shirley completing the he Anna Verrco half marathon with his son John and grandson Bryce.
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He said: 'I've never competed in anything like that before so it was a different experience. It was a bit surreal but I really enjoyed it.'

The keen runner takes part in multiple running events every year and is always supported by his wife, Judy.

Vic added: 'She has been an amazing support and I couldn't do all that I do without her.'

Vic, who ran his first marathon at the age of 65, is now looking forward to his next run, which will be closer to home '“  the Anna Verrico Isle of Axholme half marathon on October 21.

Epworth grandad Vic Shirley completing the he Anna Verrco half marathon with his grandson Bryce.Epworth grandad Vic Shirley completing the he Anna Verrco half marathon with his grandson Bryce.
Epworth grandad Vic Shirley completing the he Anna Verrco half marathon with his grandson Bryce.
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He said: 'This is an amazing local charity and I want to do anything I can to help raise some money for them. Myself and Judy will be donating.

'I have travelled all over the world to take part in races; I've been to the Gran Canaria, Prague, Amsterdam and Lake Garda, but I like to do this one as it's in my local village.

'I've also completed the race previously with my son John and grandson Bryce and to have three generations do it was pretty special.'

For more information, and for details of how you can donate to the Team Verrico charity, go to www.teamverrico.org.

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