Sonny Allen (centre)

RACE ace Sonny Allen rewrote the history books on Saturday when she struck gold for Highgate Harriers at the National Cross-Country Championships in Sedgefield.

The teenager, who goes to St Marylebone School in Westminster, was the club’s only athlete in the Women’s Under-17s age group, going up against the very best long-distance runners in the country.

As it turned out, when it comes to glory, one was more than enough for Highgate as Sonny became the club’s first national champion since 1914. The triumphant 15-year-old clocked the energy-sapping 5km course in 16 minutes, 17 seconds to take first place out of a field of 156 finishers.

Reflecting on her achievement at Hardwick East Park, Sonny said: “I’m proud, but I have honestly slightly stunned myself with the result.

“The National is always one of my highlight races of the year – the nerves, the supporters and the competition forms one of the most tense yet exciting atmospheres.

“To feel strong and in control throughout the whole race felt almost surreal, as although my fitness has been improving; to be competing with the best in the country as a serious prospect was an incredible feeling.

“Breaking the finishing tape is one of my proudest moments. It was the final piece of the puzzle falling into place.

“I’m endlessly grateful for the support of my coach, Errol Peak, whose humour, knowledge and dedicated belief in my success has undoubtedly made the greatest impact on my running career.

“I’m now looking forward to the English Schools Cross-Country finals in a few weeks time and hopefully carrying this momentum into a strong track season.”