Sunderland Harrier Kevin Jeffress will miss out on the defence of his North East Masters’ Cross Country title at Wallsend on Saturday, February 2.
The Seaham athlete will be in Torremolinos for the Half Marathon on the following day.
“I’m a bit gutted that I will miss the Vets championships,” said Jeffress, who would have been bidding for his fifth title in a row in the Over-35 category
“But at least it should be a bit warmer in Spain and I should have the sun on my back for the Half Marathon. I’m looking forward to it. It’s just unfortunate that there is a clash.”
Jeffress, a seasoned Masters’ Cross Country international, who was a member of Sunderland Harriers winning team in the Birtley Cathedral Masters Cross Country Relays on Sunday, is looking for a fast time in Torremolinos.
His best stands at 71.48 from his winning run from last year’s Vale of York Half Marathon.
He has also another event in his diary, the Port of Blyth 10km which incorporates the British Masters 10km Road Championships on Sunday, April 7.