Parkrun world record for nine-year-old boy

The fastest nine-year-old said he was "on top of the world"

A nine-year-old boy has set a new 5k parkrun world record for his age.

Louis ran the distance in 17 minutes and 40 seconds at the Poole Parkrun, in Dorset, on Saturday.

The Poole Runners Juniors member shaved 13 seconds off the previous record set in California in October 2017.

Louis said: "I'm on top of the world right now! It's a huge deal to break a world record."

Louis ran the 5km (3.1 mile) course accompanied by Dion Garner from his running club

He added: "I couldn't have done it without the support of my family and the team at Poole Runners."

During the run Louis was accompanied by Dion Garner, from his running club, as children under 11 have to run at the event within arm's reach of an adult.

He said it was "an absolute pleasure to run alongside Louis".

"His natural talent, combined with his dedication and spirit, is mind-blowing. He's not just a star in the making - he's a star right now," he said.

Also praising his achievement, his running club said: "With his new world record, Louis has raised the bar for young athletes everywhere.

"This isn't just a win for Louis, it's a new benchmark for youth sports, inspiring children all over the world to aim higher."

Run by volunteers the free Poole Parkrun takes place every Saturday at Poole Park at 09:00 and sees about 800 runners of all ages take part.