SOUTHEND High School for Boys pupil Kenneth Okeji put in a gold medal-winning performance at the SIAB International Track & Field Championships.

Okeji represented England in the 15-16 year old hammer throw competition.

And it proved to be a productive contest in Scotland, as Okeji sealed top spot.

The youngster admitted he was proud to shine in an England vest.

Okeji said: “I was very pleased to be selected to represent my country in the SIAB International Track & Field Championships.

“It was a goal that I had worked towards throughout entire year and once I found out I had bagged a place, my aim was to come back with a gold medal.

“I achieved that and I am absolutely delighted.

“I’d like to thank Southend High School For Boys for introducing me to the event and my coach, Paul Head, for helping me get to where I am today.”

Although Okeji started with two foul attempts, the teenager then chalked up efforts of 59.77m and 66.85m.

Okeji’s fifth throw reached a distance of 67.29m, which was enough to seal a place at the top of the podium.

The Southend High School for Boys pupil registered an effort of 65.52m with his final attempt at Glasgow’s Grangemouth Stadium.

And Dr Robin Bevan, the Southend High School for Boys headteacher, insisted he knew of Okeji’s potential before the youngster made the trip to Scotland.

Bevan said: “Gaining national selection for an international competition is always very special.

“To know you are one of the best in the country is inspiring and elicits mature responsibility.

“Kenny competed not only for England, but for Essex and this school.

“He knew he had our full support and we were aware of how much he has developed as an athlete under our guidance.

“He competed in Glasgow with the exceptional sporting traditions of Southend High School for Boys as his banner and we were delighted to see him win gold.”

Okeji’s gold medal-winning performance allowed him to add eight points to his country’s total.

And England were to be crowned the overall winners of the SIAB International Track & Field Championships.

England male scorers, which included Okeji, notched 258 points between them to sit at the top of the standings.

As a result, England finished 84 points clear of second-placed Ireland.

England picked up 511 points overall, with the female competitors also clinching top spot, to seal victory.