BIRMINGHAM: Britain’s Amy Hunt delivered a thrilling surge to claim the women’s 100-meter title on an explosive opening night at the European Athletics Championships in Alexander Stadium, Birmingham.

The 24-year-old sprinter recovered from a sluggish start out of the blocks to power through the middle phase of the race. Hunt crossed the line in 11.00 seconds, edging out Poland’s Ewa Swoboda (11.02s) for gold, while Belgium’s Delphine Nkansa claimed bronze in a personal-best 11.06s.

Defending champion Dina Asher-Smith finished fifth in 11.10s.

Hunt, celebrating her first senior international title, said: “A win like this on home soil is incredible,” Hunt said after celebrating her first senior continental title. I knew if I stayed patient after the start, my top-end speed would bring me through.”

While Hunt stole the headlines in the sprint events, Norwegian superstar Jakob Ingebrigtsen proved his class in the men’s 5,000 meters. Returning to high-level competition following Achilles surgery, Ingebrigtsen timed his decisive burst to perfection, controlling the late pace to capture gold. Germany’s Florian Bremm took silver, with France’s Etienne Daguinos taking bronze.

In other action the mixed 4x400m replay saw Norway – anchored by formidable performances from Karsten Warholm and Henriette Jæger – set a championship record of 3:09.62 to take gold. Great Britain secured a brave silver, with the Netherlands rounding out the podium in third.

Italy dominated the men’s shot with Leonardo Fabbri taking gold ahead of teammate Zane Weir. The women’s competition saw Netherlands celebrated a one-two finish, with Jessica Schilder claiming gold and Jorinde van Klinken taking silver.

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