Sharman bettered his own personal best set in the semi-finals in Berlin

Northamptonshire athlete William Sharman has targeted an Olympic gold medal following his superb fourth place at the World Championships in Berlin.

The 24-year-old from Corby set a new personal best in the 110 metres hurdles for the second round in a row, clocking 13.30 seconds in the final.

"When London 2012 comes around I should be in my prime," Sharman told the BBC.

"And if I'm there - as I expect to be - then I'll be pushing for the gold because I'll be peaking by then."

He added: "Fourth in the World Championship - I can't say I'm disappointed, even though it's the most unlucky position to finish in.

Who knows what's next? But the next port of call is to get home, give my little son a little cuddle and give his mum a big kiss William Sharman

"But two of the athletes who were ahead of me are my idols, so I'm really pleased to have been in contention there.

"Who knows what's next? But the next port of call is to get home, give my little son a little cuddle and give his mum a big kiss."

Sharman finished 0.16 seconds behind the winner, Ryan Braithwaite of Barbados, with American duo Terrence Trammell and David Payne claiming silver and bronze.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version