Inverclyde Athletics Club members fly the flag at cross-country championships

TWO Inverclyde athletes flew the flag for both club and country at a major event in Belfast.

Inverclyde Athletics Club members Gregor Yates and Rob Paterson more than justified their selection for the Scottish teams as they hopped over the Irish Sea to compete in the British and Irish Masters Cross Country Championships.

Rob Paterson dominated in Belfast (Image: Peter Bracegirdle) Competing over the eight-kilometre course for the men's 55 years team, Rob led the way for not only club, but also country, finishing fourth in his age group and as first Scottish finisher in little under half an hour.

He crossed the line in 28 minutes and 14 seconds as he led his team to a well-deserved bronze medal.

Gregor ran the same course in a brilliant 25 minutes and 37 seconds to finish in sixth place in the men's 40 years category - a third place finish within the Scotland team, who won a fantastic silver medal.

A club spokesperson said: "Congratulations to Rob and Gregor, two athletes who have shown incredible consistency over the past few years.

Gregor Yates was on top form (Image: Peter Bracegirdle) "Best wishes to both in their preparation for their next event, the West District Cross Country Championships next weekend, which are being held at Barwood Park, Erskine."

For more information about club activities and sessions for both juniors and seniors, either go to the club website inverclydeac.org.uk and click on the ‘Contact Us’ drop-down option, or email inverclydeac01@gmail.com.

Inverclyde Athletics Club is accredited with Active Schools Inverclyde and is supported by Diodes Inc, Inverclyde Council, Inverclyde Leisure, Smiths of Greenock, and Succession Wealth.