Parkrun: Nine-year-old Louis is a running sensation
- Published
Say hello to a nine-year-old running sensation.
Louis has set a new best time for his age group at a 5km Parkrun - a free, organised outdoor event where runners complete a 5km course.
He ran the 5,000 metre distance in 17 minutes and 40 seconds at the Poole Parkrun, in Dorset, on Saturday.
He beat the previous record - set in California in 2017 - by a phenomenal 13 seconds.
"I'm on top of the world right now. It's a huge deal to break a world record," Louis said.
Louis, who trains and runs with Poole Runners Juniors, ran the 5km (3.1 mile) course accompanied by Dion Garner from his running club.
The rules say children under 11 have to run at the event within arm's reach of an adult.
Dion 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."