Croydon Harriers junior team excelled to a solid fifth-place finish in a high quality field at Ashford on Sunday, writes Matthew Kiernan.

The 17-strong team picked up eight event victories at the National Junior Athletic League meeting and ensured they remain in contention for a top four finish.

Athlete of the match Ned Quiney flew to new heights in more ways than one, as he cleared new lifetime bests in the high jump (1.93m) and the pole vault (4.61m) to claim a double victory.

More successes in the field came from the ever-impressive Kariym Irving in the discus with a personal best 43.90m effort, while U17 Jonathon Ilori (13.94m) topped the triple jump standings.

Croydon also maintained their formidable sprinting reputation.

Twinelle Hopeson claimed the 100m (12.5s) and 200m (25.5s) double, while Odette Campbell set a new league best in the 400m (56.2s) and Oweka Wanogho made a triumphant return from injury in the 100m (10.9s).

Such promising form bodes well for Croydon’s medal prospects ahead of the South of England Under 20 championships at Watford next weekend.