– Ryan Bailey reports from Rio de Janeiro
IT WAS NEVER in any doubt, in the end just a mere formality.
Jason Smyth’s quest to win a fifth Paralympic gold and defend his T13 100m title for the second time got off to a flier this evening as he breezed into tomorrow’s final.
The 29-year-old won his heat with such control and conviction that he was able to pull up before crossing the line in a time of 10.76. Inevitably, he was the fastest qualifier from the two heats.
Smyth will bid to maintain his record of never been beaten in the Games at 3.09pm Irish time on Friday and in the process become one of Ireland’s most decorated athletes.
“It felt smooth,” he said afterwards. “It is about getting through the heat, with as little effort as possible because Friday is where it is at.
“I am happy getting through. I am going back to get some food, rest up and then come back on Friday and kick it up another notch.
“There are some things to work on in terms of the performance. The 100 metres is all about the first half of the race. That’s where you can do the biggest damage and it is very hard to catch back up. The only thing you can control is you (in relations to rivals) and that’s where my focus will be.”
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Shane Lowry is a breath of fresh air when it comes to professional sport. Nothing scripted, always honest.
It would be great to see him win the Claret jug.
He has a good chance mick of lifting it! Might do a cheeky bet on him
Lowry is always worth a cheeky fiver e/w
Well said shane! Most of us go for a kickaround on the astro once a week, why shouldnt rory! Nike might give him a boot deal when they’re at it!
Had the pleasure to be in Shanes company for dinner once ..hes a true gent and always talks sense ..Unlucky Rory
Sure he could have done that if he slipped in the bath. He can’t wrap him self in cotton wool.
Lowry himself had a freak injury about 4 years ago. Rumour has it that he fell down the stairs in Coppers! Not sure if true or not. Obviously not quite on the same level but these guys can’t be wrapped in cotton wool. They need to have some semblance of normality in their lives.
Still though it’s crazy timing. The Open at St. Andrews in THE major that everyone wants.
Shane likes a night out. Met him once out in Dublin on a night out. Sound fella.
Accidents happen no matter what, he’s only trying to enjoy himself with his mates. Lowry is talking a lot of sense, as per usual.
I have spoke to same who said what was he thinking the week before the open? what’s your view?
I know the Open is a major, but he is nearly always a week away from some tournament. Why not have a kick around? Sure you can injure yourself walking down the stairs.
that was my view but others seem to think what was he at
Buffon or Toldo. Can’t remember which Italian keeper it was…. but he knocked a shaving gel can on his foot and broke a bone a month before a world cup. sh#t happens.
it was Canizarès the ex Valencia/Spanish Goalie,
Apparently he wasn’t even bring tackled when it happened. It’s just hard luck. He can’t be expected to beat balls all day.