World Indoor champion Danny Crates added the European title on Friday when he blew away his rivals in the arm amputee 800m in the Netherlands.

The on-song Thurrock Harrier demolished the field at the EPC Eupoean Championships at Assen, finishing over three seconds clear of silver medalist Jose Monteiro from Portugal.

Crates, the 30-year-old track star who lives at Corringham, clocked 2mins 00.34secs and was simply too good for Monteiro and the rest.

"It was a fast first lap, but everyone hung in well," said Crates.

"I was really pleased with my finish, which I am hoping to make a bit of a trademark.

"My training in the 400m has certainly helped my speed at that end of the race."

In his first year with the 800m as his main event -- Crates has previously won Paralympic bronze over 400m -- Crates now has two major crowns and is determined to add gold from the Paralympic Games in Athens next year.

Published Monday, June 23, 2003

Brought to you by the Evening Echo