Obikwelu picks up sprint double
Francis Obikwelu leaves Marlon Devonish trailing
Also In The News
|
World records. |  |
Thursday, 10, Aug 2006 09:34
Francis Obikwelu of Portugal confirmed his place amongst the frontline contenders in world sprinting as he added the 200m title to his 100m European Championship gold from earlier in the week.
Just as he had in the shorter distance on Tuesday, Obikwelu left the rest of the field trailing as he recovered from an indifferent start to surge through and take first place.
It is the first time in 28 years, since Italy's Pietro Mennea, that the same athlete has carried home both sprint golds in these championships.
He also set a new national record for his country with a time of 20.01secs as he led home favourite Sweden's Johan Wissman and Britain's Marlon Devonish.
Obikwelu spoke afterwards of his delight at going one better in the event than he had managed four years earlier.
"I'm pleased with this result - it's always been my goal this year to get a medal here," he said.
"I bet you there will be a lot of partying in Portugal tonight."
Wissman's performance delighted the home crowd, setting a new national best and delivering the host nation's fourth medal of the championship.