Athletics: Maycock considers Ireland switch

Britain’s top middle-distance runner John Mayock is considering switching his allegiance from England to Ireland as he steps up in distance to 5,000 metres next summer.

Only a week after fellow Yorkshire runner Jon Brown hinted he was considering a change of country, Mayock, who runs for Barnsley, said he also felt a change of colours might further his career.

In Brown’s case, his desire to represent Canada after living there for the last five years, first in Vancouver and now Victoria Island, is understandable, but the loss of Mayock would be a hard blow to UK Athletics.

Mayock refuses to rule out a switch in allegiance, saying: ‘‘Why not? I race a lot over here and the reception I get from the crowds is magnificent.

‘‘They really enjoy the sport. My grandparents are from Co Mayo. If the Irish want me I would consider the proposal.’’

Determined to become the country’s top 5,000m runner next summer, Mayock failed to retain his BUPA Ireland Run title in Loughrea - but there was a huge smile on the face of the Yorkshireman after placing fourth in a cracking five miles race.

As Peter Mathews led Ireland to individual and team glory, Mayock was nevertheless delighted to have set a new personal best of 23 minutes 32 seconds for the distance.

‘‘It was a great race and much tougher than last year. There was no wind to slow the pace down and after so little training I was very impressed with my run.

‘‘I’m looking forward to doing a few more road races like that - hopefully in Britain,’’ said Mayock.