Mark English soared into the 800m semi-finals of the 2019 European Indoor Championships in Glasgow.
English breezed through his head in 1 minute and 49.38 seconds.
The Letterkenny man – the silver medallist in these Championships four years ago – has returned to his best form again this year. English recently set his fastest indoor time in four years in winning a race in Athlone, while he has won his sixth Irish indoor medal.
English flew past Frenchman Aymeric Lusinel to win the heat.
“I felt really good, just wanted to save it for the last 100m, get in front by the finish, so happy with the finish,” said English, whose semi-final is timed for 6.25pm on Saturday.
“I’m in a good place, and it’s the championships where your performances really matter. I know I’ve got good finishing speed, but it will be another step up in the semi-finals.”
English overcame an injury-hit period post-Olympics in 2016 to get back among the continent’s best.
English looked at ease in the Emirates Arena and will be hopeful of making the final.
He said: “I felt like I had a lot to give on the backstretch, and again the competition will be a lot tougher.
“All I can do is put myself in contention. I know in the past I’ve stayed too far back. I don’t want to make that mistake again.
“I don’t think I’ve ever forgotten I’ve won those medals, but that is the past, this is about the present, and the future, and giving that a good shot.”
Meanwhile, Sommer Lecky bowed out of the women’s high jump.
The Finn Valley AC woman – the 2018 World U20 silver medallist – successfully cleared 1.75 metres but couldn’t get over the bar at 1.81m.
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