GB’s Ben Sandilands sets new world record to claim T20 1500m Paralympic gold
The 21-year-old Scottish runner, who won world gold in the French capital last year, crossed the line in three minutes and 45.40 seconds.
Great Britain’s Ben Sandilands set a new world record to claim Paralympic gold in the men’s T20 1500m in Paris.
The 21-year-old Scottish runner, who won world gold in the French capital last year, crossed the line in three minutes and 45.40 seconds.
His time shaved 0.1 secs off the previous global best, held by American Michael Brannigan since 2017.
Brannigan clinched bronze at Stade de France, 4.51 secs behind Sandilands, while silver medallist Sandro Baessa of Portugal was 4.06 secs off the pace.
Games debutant Sandilands takes the title from fellow Scot Owen Miller, who won gold in three mins and 54.57 secs at Tokyo 2020 but is not in France due to injury.
“It’s an amazing feeling,” said Sandilands. “I’ve put in so much hard work.
“I knew I had the speed in me at the end from my training.
“The timing has to be perfect and I went for it, and the world record means a lot. It’s incredible.”
Wheelchair racer Marcus Perrineau-Daley won silver in the men’s T52 100m with a time of 17.27 secs, 0.57 secs behind Belgian Maxime Carabin.
“It is incredible but I can’t help but think I could have won a gold medal,” said the 35-year-old Games debutant.
“I was so focused on staying in lane, I was staring at the wheel, but it shows, when I put my power down, they won’t be able to catch me.
“I made three mistakes today and I still won a silver. I am not trying to boast, but when I do get it right, I am destined for gold.”
