A GIFTED runner enhanced his promising reputation at a prestigious national competition.

Gabriel Speakman, a Year 7 pupil at the Rydal Penrhos School in Colwyn Bay, was part of the Eryri squad that competed against some of the best young endurance athletes in the country at the Welsh Cross-Country Championships in Brecon.

The Drama and Sports scholar booked his place at the showcase with a sensational display at the Regional Finals, where he secured a fifth placed finish during a rousing effort that was full of determination and quality.

He followed this up at the Brecon event and managed to place as the second Eryri runner at the competition, finishing 55th overall in an extremely competitive field with older and more experienced opposition.

The brother of Swim Wales youth international Zach has made a hugely impressive start to life at Rydal Penrhos after joining the school in September, and he has made a significant impact both academically and in a sporting environment during this period.

Gabriel is also a very talented actor and will be taking the stage in various roles for the upcoming Dramatic Society production of Les Miserables, and he also recently contributed to a Suitcase Theatre production of 'A Wounded Peace' during the festive period at Theatr Clwyd in Mold.

Allen Boyd, director of sport at Rydal Penrhos, said: “Gabe has adjusted to the demands of a Rydal Penrhos education immensely well, and he is a multi-talented individual that is sure to go on to great things in the future.

“To perform so well in an event such as the Welsh Championships is a testament to his overall conditioning, composure on the big stage and his ability to rise to any occasion.”