Mo Farah beaten in Great Edinburgh Cross Country
By Matthew Treadwell
Last Updated: 14/01/16 2:40pm
Mo Farah had to settle for second place at the Great Edinburgh Cross Country after Garrett Heath held off the challenge of the double OIympic champion.
Farah was part of the leading pack for much of the contest but with conditions difficult underfoot, he was unable to kick for the line.
Heath, representing USA in a team event that also featured Great Britain and Europe, came home in 25 mins and 29 secs, two seconds ahead of Farah.
Heath's compatriot Scott Faubl finished third in a time of 25:38.
But with home athletes Callum Hawkins, Ross Millington, Dewi Griffiths and Andrew Butchart occupying the next four places, Great Britain secured enough points to claim the overall team prize.
Farah will now continue his preparations for this summer's Olympics in Rio de Janeiro in the more welcoming climate of Ethiopia as he bids to successfully defend his 5,000m and 10,000 crowns.
Farah tweeted on Sunday morning: "Better man on course won yesterday..!! Will be back..!! Thx everyone 4 your great support."
Earlier on Saturday, Britain's Kate Avery won the 6km women's race to record her first senior victory.
The 24-year-old took the lead early on and held firm to win in 21:05, four seconds clear of Ireland's Fionnuala McCormack, who was representing Europe, with Avery's compatriot Gemma Steel third in 21:31.
Final Match Standings (lowest points total wins)
Great Britan - 125
Europe - 197
USA - 232
