Top title for rising decathlon star Archie

Thorpe sixth-former Archie Hannent has been crowned U20 England Athletics National Champion in the Decathlon, achieving the remarkable success as one of the youngest athletes in the 10-event field at Bedford.

LIFE IN THE FAST LANE: Track and field star Archie Hannent.

His outstanding performance has moved him to second in the UK U20 Decathlon rankings. On his way to the title, clinched with a storming final event success in the 1500m, the City of Norwich AC talent also threw a personal best of 59.87m in the Javelin, placing him fourth in the UK U20 rankings.

The week before, Archie, 17, travelled to Oregon, USA, as part of a training camp and competition tour. He trained extensively, competed at the iconic Hayward Field, and benefited from specialist coaching delivered by a University of Oregon sprinter.

Earlier this year Archie competed at the German National Junior Combined Events Championships in Filderstadt.

Although injury prevented him from completing the Decathlon, he was on course to finish in the overall top 10 U20 athletes and the top three in his year group from a field of nearly 50 competitors.

“Everyone at Thorpe Sixth Form is very proud of Archie and wish him the very best of luck and looks forward to celebrating his future successes,” said Upper Sixth Head Emma Algar.