Double Dutch: Neil and Erin will head to European Indoors

Wednesday 26th February 2025

Photos: Getty Images for British Athletics

Two Scots are headed to Holland next week for the European Indoor Champs.

British champion Neil Gourley will compete in the Men’s 1500m while Erin Wallace is selected in the Women’s 800m.

GB and NI will compete at Apeldoorn in Holland from March 6-9.

In selections, UK Athletics look to maximise the number of medals won, whilst also providing a development opportunity for athletes capable of finishing in the top eight at the Championships.

The European event is the first of two major championships taking place in March 2025 with the COVID-postponed World Indoors in Nanjing, China taking place 21-23 March. Selections for that championships take place after Apeldoorn.

Congratulations to Neil and his coach Stephen Haas and to Erin and her coach, Trevor Painter. And, of course, well done to all at Giffnock North AC on development work over many years with these two athletes (and many more).

Thanks to Stuart Weir in Birmingham for this interview with Neil

Paula Dunn, Head Coach at UKA, said: ‘Historically, this has been a Championship in which the Great Britain and Northern Ireland team has thrived, but it has also been a crucial way for athletes to step into the major championship arena for the first time.

‘As we begin the LA Olympic and Paralympic cycle it is great to see a team that combines World and Olympic medallists alongside a number of developing athletes who are making their GB and NI debut.

‘I am looking forward to the squad rising to the challenge, achieving PB performances , reaching finals and battling for medals in Apeldoorn.’

UK Athletics website announcement

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Photo courtesy of Kenny Clements of EKAC

* Scottish athlete Hannah Anderson has been picked by Finland for the European Champs.

Hannah, who first competed for the country of her mother at the Euro Cross at the end of 2024, is selected this time in the 1500m following recent strong runs.

Coached by Lewis Walker, she becomes the first athlete developed through the ranks of East Kilbride AC to be selected for a major track and field international championship event. The East Kilbride club – rightly – are hugely proud of her progress.

Congratulations!

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Tags: Apeldoorn, Erin Wallace, European Indoors, Hannah Anderson, Neil Gourley