SWINDON Harriers’ Kate Jacobs has spoken of her delight at representing England for the first time.

The 38-year-old from Stratton St Margaret made her international debut at the British & Irish Masters Cross Country match in Dublin last weekend finishing eighth in her over 35 age group race.

“It was an amazing experience and I was very proud to wear the England vest for the first time” said Jacobs.

“It felt really good and I really enjoyed the event and my race.”

Jacobs rarely races off the road as she specialises on the track and road.

Indeed, she reckons this was her first cross country fixture for three years so she was clearly at a disadvantage against her more experienced rivals.

“I think if I practiced more for cross country I could have run faster and done better but I haven’t done much on the country for a few years because of a weak foot so overall I was very pleased with my position in Dublin,” added Jacobs.

“But my main focus is still on the track though I will do a few more cross country races this winter like the Wiltshire Championships and maybe the ‘National’ early next year.

“They will be good preparation for the track season next summer which remains my target.”