Jason Smyth and Michael McKillop Win Gold Medals

Northern Ireland runners Jason Smyth and Michael McKillop won gold medals at the Paralympics.

Smyth, 25, from Eglinton retained his 100 metres T13 title, bursting away from the field to win in a world record time of 10.46 seconds.

Glengormley man McKillop, also a hot favourite to repeat his Beijing win, was a runaway winner of the T32 title over 800 metres. McKillop also set a new world best, coming home in 1.57.22. Australian Brad Scott was with McKillop at the bell, but the Irish man went it alone for the final 400 metres and the 22-year-old finished more than four seconds ahead of Tunisia's Mohamed Charmi with Scott taking bronze. McKillop said watching Smyth's victory earlier had inspired him. "We are best friends and room-mates. I could not have walked into that bedroom tonight without a gold medal around my neck," said McKillop"

Both athletes can each win a second gold later in the Games. Sprinter Smyth, who won double gold in 2008, is targeting another success in the 200 metres while McKillop goes in the 1500m final on Monday. McKillop is unbeaten at Paralympic level for six years and won over his two distances at last year's World Championships.