International success for our U23 runners in Italy

A strong team of athletes represented England at the Corsa dei Castelli point to point road race in Trieste, Italy.

The Corsa dei Castelli ('race of the castles') 10k begins at the Miramare Castle, takes runners through the old city of Trieste, and finishes at the medieval San Giusto Castle after a final climb called 'Il Muro' (the wall).

Off-Track National Manager Andrew Heyes said:

"It is really important for the under 23 age group to experience international competition as they transition from junior to senior. It has been fantastic to see the whole team take the opportunity to test themselves in a high quality field."

The team were also excited to meet Nadia Battoceletti; the Olympic silver medallist also won gold in the 5,000m and 10,000m at the 2024 European Championships and silver at the 2025 World Championships 10,000m.

Strong performances from all athletes resulted in two team silvers. There was also an individual podium third from Rebecca Flaherty who clocked 34:04.

Megan Stonehouse came 5th:

"Thank you England Athletics for the opportunity to travel and race. I loved every second and am grateful for the chance of development."

Results

Women
3rd: Rebecca Flaherty (Bingley Harriers, Matt Seddon/Andy Henderson) 34:04
5th: Megan Stenhouse (Rugby and Northampton AC, Nathan Shrubb) 34:27
9th: Lucy Armitage (Sale Harriers Manchester, David Rodgers) 34:53

Women’s team: 2nd

Men
4th: Matthew Ramsden (Blackburn Harriers AC, Edmund Finucane) 29:25
7th: Sam Hodgson (Windsor, Slough Eton and Hounslow AC, Paddy McGrath) 29:54
9th: Chris Coulson (Morpeth Harriers, Nathan Shrubb) 29:59
10th: Finlay Ward (Rugby and Northampton AC, Luke Greer) 30:21

Men’s team: 2nd

Race photos by Pierro Emanuele
Top team photo by Nicolas Miglioresi