Mather streaks away with the Opal (& VIDEO of FINAL)

http://www.bendigoadvertiser.com.au/news/local/sport/cycling/mather-masters-opal/2484459.aspx


Mather masters Opal

ADAM BOURKE
Bendigo Advertiser
12 Mar, 2012


JOSH Mather is hoping to use his stunning win in last night’s Black Opal 400m final as a springboard to national honours.
The 18-year-old from Melbourne dominated his heat and semi-final before cruising to the biggest win of his career in the final.

“I came seventh in this race last year, so I was really keen to go better this year,’’ Mather said.

“I’ve felt good all weekend. My heat and semi-final runs were good.

“The final was tougher, but I always felt I was going well. It’s an amazing feeling.”

Mather (9m) ran 47.7 seconds for the 400m to defeat Jayson Hayes-Hornibrook (16m) and Rory Nunn (19m).

Mather collected the first prize of $3500 and a Black Opal valued at $9000.

After running slick times of 47.6 and 47.06 in his heat and semi-final, Mather was sent out a long odds-on favourite for the final.

“My form has been good this season without winning,’’ Mather said.

“I’ve run a few thirds and fourths and a couple of seconds.

“It’s good to win a big one like this. I’ve been working really hard for this.”

Mather said he’d love to take on Australia’s best 400m runners in the future and push for a Commonwealth and/or Olympic Games berth.

“I’m keen to have a crack at the amateurs down the track,’’ Mather said.

“I still aspire to run for Australia one day.

“I’ve got a lot of improving to do, but if I stick at it anything could happen.”

What was red doing in the 120m final turning his head 5m before crossing the line?

Good example of a 400m there as well.. Matty H in the red looked in a great position getting onto the winner early (maybe too early) but excellent kick home from Josh. One day I'll have to make it over to Bendigo for the Opal.