Power sets sights on longer distances

Seamus Power has had a change of heart and will now compete over the long course race at the World Cross Country Championships in Dublin. He maintained his impressive form on Saturday when finishing fourth to a trio of Kenyans over a fast and frozen circuit at Stormont Estate, and is now satisfied that his best chance in Leopardstown in March will be in the longer race.

Although victory in Belfast always looked a step too far, Power produced another bold and determined effort. He was leading the international field for over half of the 8km race and it took some typical teamwork by the Kenyans' to break his challenge.

Daniel Gachara made the decisive break on the last of the five laps to win by a stride from countryman Joseph Riri in 24 minutes 18 seconds. Yet Power held his head and managed to split the Africans at the finish. He out-surged Julius Kimutai of Kenya and the strongly fancied Fita Bayissa of Ethiopia, who finished a close fourth over 5,000 metres at the Sydney Olympics last September.

But there was no doubt about the quality of runners ahead of the Clareman. Gachara was sixth at the world tests in Belfast two years ago and now returns to train in Kenya with the aim of winning the title in Leopardstown. Power heads off today for three weeks training in Portugal, his mind clearly focused on the long course race.

Fiachra Lombard of Cork now looks certain to join Power in Leopardstown. He was next best of the Irish in 10th position after staying in contact with the leaders until the final lap.