Smyth sprints to new world record

By Elizabeth Hudson
BBC Sport in Manchester

Sprinter Jason Smyth claimed a new world record on his way to winning gold in the T12/13 100m at the Paralympic World Cup in Manchester.

The 21-year-old from Derry set a new mark of 10.85 seconds, lowering his previous best of 10.86 set in 2006.

"It's nice to run a good time in the first race of the season," said the partially-sighted athlete.

"But although I am surprised at setting the new record, I know I can run quicker as the season goes on."

Smyth won gold in the 100 and 200m at the Paralympic World Championships in 2006 and is hoping to be selected on the Irish team for the Beijing Paralympics in September.

"My training has been heading in the right direction but training and competition are two different things," he added.

"It's going to be a busy season but it's all about peaking in Beijing and running your best but I'm heading in the right way, which is good.

"I'm excited about Beijing but I don't really know what to expect. It will be good to go out on the big occasion and run, despite the pressure."

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