Mike McLeod was another local runner (Northumberland) come good. At the peek of his career where he achieved a Silver medal in the 10000m at the Los Angeles Olympics, after the runner who finished 2nd was disqualified for steroid abuse. Years later the winner of that race admitted to blood transfusions during his career and there were calls to revoke his gold and promote Mike to first.
Mike, who competed for Elswick Harriers was twice winner of the Golden 10,000 metre which seems to be now known as the world championships and also won the Morpeth to Newcastle road race on 5 occasions with 63 minutes and 25 seconds being his best time in 1980. He won the Saltwell Harriers 10k road race 17 years in a row, Blaydon Race 7 times and was the winner of the first ever Great North Run.
Over his career Mike competed at the Commonwealth games three times picking up a bronze in the 10000m race. Our very own Paul Harker has competed with Mike and can be seen here on the inside of the road wearing number 12 vest. Mike’s son Ryan is also a very accomplished runner.
