We were expecting Jimmy Gressier and it was Yann Schrub who snatched the bronze medal in the 10,000 meters… A performance of choice for the Habs who, in 27′47′’13, finished behind the Italian Crippa (27′46′’13) and the Norwegian Mezngi (27′46′’94).
Long in the lead with the desire to lead a fast train, Gressier, favorite, finished 4th, in 27′49′’84, without enough energy to get back on the podium at the end of the race. On the contrary, Schrub took full advantage of his excellent finish to invite himself there and offer himself a personal best in the process.
Schrub brings to the French team his eighth medal of the European competition, a real reward for the talented athlete from Sarreguemines, who must compose between his training and his medical studies, without any accommodation.
“I’m like a 26-year-old kid, whose first championship it was, already moved by the public,” Schrub told France Télévisions. I was racing in the big leagues with Jimmys, Crippas. The goal was to gain experience. I had nothing to lose, I’m very happy. I think it will be a rebound for my career. I hope it will match in future years, especially since there is a big event in two years.
Despite the disappointment, Gressier did not hesitate to salute his teammate’s performance. “I have the chocolate medal, not the one I came for, he said on France Télévisions. But there, I wear the French flag around my neck because it is a collective success. Yann Schrub, 3rd, for someone who is in medical school, who works hard and trains little, it is an achievement. It shows everyone that it is possible. I am extremely happy for him, even if I am personally disappointed. Tonight (Sunday), we’re going to drink beers together. It is an individual and collective sport at the same time. We have had a great cross country team for several years. We will continue to work, one day I will have my medal. In sport, you have to know how to lose. »
Shortly after, the men’s 4×100 relay composed of Méba-Mickaël Zeze, Pablo Mateo, Ryan Zeze and Jimmy Vicaut held their rank by finishing 2nd in 37′’94, behind Great Britain, 37′’67 and ahead of Poland , 38′’15. For the occasion, the British broke the old competition record, owned by France since the European Championships in Split in 1990. “We are very satisfied with the medal and the time, we go under 38 seconds, it will encourage us to work,” said Mateo after the race.
The women’s 4×100 relay was not so happy, since a failed first handover was right for her chances.