Tough start to 2003 for Radcliffe
Paula Radcliffe will begin 2003 with a high-profile race against two-time Olympic 10,000 metres gold medallist Derartu Tulu in the Great North Cross-Country event.
A tough contest in Newcastle is anticipated between the world class rivals in their six kilometres race on January 4, with added spice coming from the presence of a second awesome Ethiopian, Gete Wami.
"That's my budget completely spent - but I've got value for money," said race co-ordinator Peter Elliott.
"I couldn't think of a more fascinating start to the year for all three athletes."
The presence of the trio means the field will boast - apart from 1998 champion Sonia O'Sullivan - every winner of the IAAF World Cross-Country long course title since 1994.
