Claxton finally comes good in Beijing

BRITAIN'S Sarah Claxton believes she has finally overcome her mental demons after reaching the Olympic 100m hurdles final.

The 27-year-old has long been regarded as one of the most talented female athletes in the British squad but her results have not previously matched her potential.

Claxton bowed out in the heats at both the Athens Olympics and Helsinki World Championships and question marks remain over her ability to produce under pressure.

But now she will have the chance to prove all her critics wrong after qualifying fourth in her semi-final in a time of 12.84 seconds.

And the Woodford Green & Essex Ladies insists she is on her game both physically and mentally.

She said: "It feels great to be in an Olympic final, I am buzzing.

"I am not surprised that I got there because my head was right.

"For me getting there, it was a case of conquering my demons and saying sod it and just do whatever it takes to get there.

"I did not feel the pressure on me and I was in great shape - I just went out there, gave it my all and got the rewards."

Claxton made a brilliant start getting away quickest out of the blocks and led with Jamaica's Bridgitte Foster-Hylton for the first 60m.

But after slightly clipping two hurdles, Claxton opened the door for American's Damu Cherry and Dawn Harper to surge past her in the final sprint.

She will start the final, which will take place at 15.55 UK times, in an outside lane having posted the slowest time in both semi-finals.

DANIEL SCHOFIELD in Beijing