NEWPORT’S Chris Gowell produced a gutsy, if unspectacular third leg as Wales finished outside of the medals in the 4x400m final at the Commonwealth Games in Delhi.

Unable to bring in 400m hurdles gold medallist Dai Greene for the final, who was struggling with injury, and without the sort of vintage from years gone by such as Iwan Thomas and Jamie Baulch, the Welsh quartet were always going to struggle.

Gowell, who is an 800m specialist by trade, joined forces with 400m hurdler Rhys Williams and fellow middle-distance stars Joe Thomas and Gareth Warburton but the Welsh, despite challenging for the opening two legs, were unable to sustain their medal charge.

Williams ensured Wales were always in contention after a blistering opening leg but Australia, Kenya and England pulled away.

“That was really hard but I know I was the weakest link in that race and if I am being honest I expected to be as well,” admitted a deflated Gowell.

“I have been working on 1500m rather than the 400m and that clearly showed.

“Collectively and as people and as athletes we can improve a huge amount because this experience has been invaluable.

“It is awesome running in front of that many people. I love it and I just want to keep running in front of big crowds.”

Despite leaving Delhi empty-handed, Gowell paid tribute to the Welsh backroom staff and admitted his Games experience had been special.

“The Wales camp has been like a family during the Games and we are always encouraging each other on,” added Gowell. “It is such an honour to compete for Wales but now my main is to get into the British team.

“That’s the next step for me and it will be a tough challenge because there are a number of good runners out there but I will knuckle down in winter training and see where that gets me.”

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