Talbot targets Euro under-23 medal after 42-strong British squad is announced

By Joe Whitehead, Sportsbeat

SPRINTER Danny Talbot declared a case of job done after booking his place at the European Under-23 Championships in Ostrava next month with victory in Bedford last weekend - and immediately set his sights on reaching the podium in the Czech Republic.

EYES ON THE PRIZE: Sprinter Danny Talbot, pictured with Iwan Thomas, is targeting a medal at the European Under-23 Championships in Ostrava next month

The 20-year-old romped to 200m victory at the England Under-23 Championships on Sunday, crossing the line in 21.01 seconds to secure his place in the 42-strong British squad.

Talbot is joined by 100m sprinter James Alaka, who fought off stiff competition from hopefuls Richard Kility and James Craig in a tight top-three finish in the Bedford trials, which acted as qualification for the Great Britain and Northern Ireland team.

"I just went to Bedford to win and secure my place in Ostrava, so I'm happy I did that. The time wasn't great, but it's all about winning today, so I'm pleased," said Talbot.

"I've got a race in France in early July and that'll be my last race before the Euros and then off to Ostrava to try to win a medal in the 200m.

"I think I can win the medal, so if everything goes right on the day, I should have a shot."

With London 2012 now firmly placed on the horizon, and having already represented Team GB in both the 200m as well as the 4x100m relay in Stockholm, Talbot knows that achieving a medal at the European Under-23 Championships would go some way to strengthening his Olympic claims.

"I always love to represent my country," added Talbot.

"I think a lot of athletes say that London 2012 is on the back of their minds, but really we're British athletes and we've got the Olympics in our own back yard.

"Everything I do is aimed towards that. Hopefully I can get to the final but I'll settle for just being there."

© Sportsbeat 2011