Joe Wigfield (Wirral AC, Craig Winrow) and Alex Bell (Pudsey & Bramley AC, Andrew Henderson) mark the first selections for the Novuna Great Britain & Northern Ireland team at the World Road Running Championships later in the year.
Both Wigfield and Bell claimed the win at the GetPro Bath Half Marathon which was the trial event, where they both have secured the qualifying standards for selection (61:30 for men, 69:30 for women).
These selections have been selected based on the performance aims to maximise medal success and top-eight placings at these Championships.
Wigfield has enjoyed a standout start to the year, having equaled the men’s 10K British record in Valencia in January before winning the Bath Half Marathon in a sprint finish of 62.07. Speaking about earning his first vest since 2023, he added:
“I wanted that vest coming in and I now have something to look forward to post‑track season. So, to win and get that qualification is a real bonus.”
“It was good but hard. Conditions were a bit windy but that was OK. Jake [Smith] led us out and all of us felt we could take each other on in a sprint finish and, thankfully, I was strongest up the hill and managed to hold it together. I wasn’t expecting it to be that fast, but it went exactly how I wanted.”
In contrast to the tactical pack running in the men’s race, Bell delivered a commanding solo performance in the women’s event. She broke away from the pack in the early stages—an approach that even surprised her.
“I didn’t ease off and I have never been to Bath but I will certainly be back, after I have practiced some hills! I used my 800‑metre pedigree for the final stages so that really put me in a good position for the final.
“I was very happy today. I had some tired legs ahead of this race, but I really surprised myself.”
Bell secured her place on the British team heading to Copenhagen with an impressive 69:15. Having previously competed at 800m at Olympic level, this will be her first time representing Great Britain over the half marathon distance.
Speaking on the selection announcement Chris Jones, UK Athletics Endurance Strategy Manager, said:
‘Following the Bath Half Marathon event we are pleased to announce the first athletes selected for the World Athletics Road Running Championships, marking the start of an exciting team for the Championships later in the year. Congratulations to both Joe and Alex on their selection and wins at the weekend.’
World Road Running Championships
Men’s Half Marathon
Joe Wigfield (Wirral AC, Craig Winrow)
Women’s Half Marathon
Alex Bell (Pudsey & Bramley AC, Andrew Henderson)