WILTSHIRE athlete Thomas Johnson recently became the Under-17 World Laser Run Champion in Lisbon, Portugal.

The former Lavington School pupil represented Team GB at Nations Park in Lisbon, and picked up his second gold medal of September - following a first place in the individual U17 Modern Triathlon at the Youth Sports Trust National School Games Final at Loughborough University.

Laser Run is based upon the running and shooting disciplines from the Olympic sport of Modern Pentathlon. Competitors run and then shoot at a target with laser pistols before running again – the number of laps and the distances involved vary according to the age group.

The U17 section is one of the most competitive age groups, and Johnson did well to dominate his semi-final heat in Portugal. Winning ensured the All Cannings teenager automatically qualified for the final which took place a couple of hours later.

As expected, the final posed a sterner test with medals at stake. Strong competition came from Austria, South Africa, France, and the home nation as well as fellow GB athletes in the early part of the race.

The lead changed hands several times before the Marlborough Athletics Club member established an unassailable lead on the final lap to take gold.