Matt Ramsden wins 5000m national title

Matt Ramsden’s hot run of form continued to claim a maiden national title in the 5000m in Sydney, Saturday 13 March, 2021.

The slow pace early in the race placed in the hands of the 1500m speciallist, with Ramsden keeping his powder dry in the early stages. As the race entered the final lap he unleashed his powerful kick to race away to the gold.

“That is my first proper national title so I couldn’t be more pleased,” he said.

Ramsden, who set an automatic Olympic qualifier in the 1500m in February is keeping his options open, with the opportunity to potentially compete in the 5000m in Tokyo something he is working towards.

“The 1500 is still definitely my preference, but it is just good to have options. Like anything in life if you have options it means you are going alright.

“That kind of just showed I am good enough for the Olympics to make the final if I did choose to make the 5k.”