AN employee at one of Harlow’s largest manufacturing companies has made a triumphant return after competing in a prestigious athletics event in Europe.

Kermitt Bentham, who works at Gratnells in Howard Way, competed in the Masters World Championships in Malaga earlier this month, winning a Gold medal in the 4x400m Relay along and achieving a European record at the same time.

His love for the sport started in his early teens when he joined his local athletics club. At the age of 23, he wore his first GB international vest in the 400m and went on to compete in thirteen GB and England Internationals, holding the English Indoor 4x400m record.

As his passion and enthusiasm grew, at 40 years old, Kermitt started competing in the Masters (Veterans) events for Great Britain, holding the British Indoor and Outdoor record for 2 years and winning numerous individual and relay Golds.

Today he competes in the M55-60 age range and this year he has taken part in the British, European and World Masters Championships, the latter where he won his Gold.
Kermitt has worked at Gratnells for 32 years, currently as Primary Manager, responsible for all first stage operations. His typical day involves working his normal hours and then training in the evenings, either at the track or in the gym.

He commented “I enjoy athletics and the thrill of competition. It’s always rewarding to win but I train hard and believe my dedication has paid off. My next big quest will be the 2020 World Championships in Toronto Canada.”