East is on the up after mammoth throw in Manchester

Team Kennet’s Ben East threw a mammoth 72.91m to move to number one in the UK javelin rankings at the BUCS Outdoor Championship in Manchester.

East, who is studying mechanical engineering at Loughborough University, made his seasonal return the week before when throwing an impressive 70.11m at the Loughborough Open.

The thrower, who is coached by Kennet’s Luke Angell and Loughborough’s Dave Turner, is part of the GB Athletics Junior Talent Programme.

His superb showing at the Manchester Regional Arena moved him up to fourth in the European rankings and 19th in the world, despite still being eligible to compete in under-23 events.

And East, who is hoping to throw 76m – the qualification standard for the European U23 Championships in Finland – this season, was delighted with his performance in the North West.

“We focused a lot on preparation in the lead up to the competition, and I think it paid off,” he said.

“I had a good opening throw which was enough to win – which was good as it happened before the rain began.

“I’m looking forward to a good season.

“I’m really enjoying the facilities at Loughborough and training is going well, I’m really hoping to get to Finland.”