ATHLETE Darren Towart has set a new world indoor hurdling record at the age of 41.

The Tynedale Harrier ran the 400m hurdles at Sheffield in 60.80s, which smashed the previous record of 61.40 in the M40 (over 40) category.

Towart’s exploits, at the English Institute of Sport Northern Championship on Saturday, saw the father-of-two push himself to the limit.

He said: “I’m buzzing, because I knew the record was within my reach, but I had to go out there and perform on the day.

“It was tough going. I ran a 60m race warm-up race beforehand, and for the 400m hurdles I had to be at my best both mentally as well as physically.

“I was in lane two, and negotiating the first hurdle requires the ultimate focus, because the first set of hurdles are staggered around the bend of the indoor track, and psychologically it feels as though other athletes are reaching their hurdles before you.

“The nature of an indoor track takes you up and down slopes on the bends, but my leg speed was good.

“I ran as well as I could but once I crossed the finish line, I dropped to the floor. I had given it everything.”

Despite his accomplishment, Towart has achieved even better times on the outdoor track, including last September in Malaga, where he ran the 400m hurdles in 59.68s.

Although he competed in the M40 category, Towart finished fourth overall, against younger athletes in the senior men’s race.

The Heddon-on-the-Wall resident has made changes to his training regime in recent months, after teaming up with renowned coach Peter Venus.

He also began fasting three weeks prior to Saturday’s competition, and his specially planned diet saw Towart lose 5kg in weight.

“To do well in any sport you have to work hard,” he said. “But it’s something I enjoy. I have a training schedule that I stick to, and I am enjoying working with Peter.

“It’s paying dividends, because I’m starting to get some season’s best times.

“As for the fasting, I have no problems sticking to a diet, but I do think you should reward yourself after a race.”

Towart is working towards competing in the World Indoor Championships in Poland next month. As part of his preparations, he will head to Glasgow for the Scottish Masters Championships. The former rugby player added: “You don’t mind putting the effort in if you are having fun.”