Karl Johnson of Newham & Essex Beagles

Karl Johnson is showing real athletic potential at the age of just 11

Newham & Essex Beagles youngster Karl Johnson may not be 12 until April, but he is already making his presence known among the best under-13s in the country.

The Beckton sprinter was in action in two events at the Essex Athletes Network Open event in Chelmsford over the weekend and he posted impressive efforts in both.

Under the guidance of coach Cegrid Ayers, the 11-year-old recorded a superb time of 9.6 seconds in the indoor 60 metre hurdles, before turning his hand to the high jump where his clearance of 1.35 metres was a personal best.

The two performances put him top of the UK rankings at under-13 in both events.

Johnson also continues to excel at the flat 60m indoors and is preparing for the outdoor season.

■ Meanwhile, two Beagles took part in the Reading half-marathon and recorded fine results.

Dave Mitchinson clocked 68 minutes and five seconds to finish in a superb 15th place, while Gavin Smith’s 31st place came courtesy of a time of 69.52.