Derval O'Rourke claimed gold today in an historic day for Irish sport in Moscow becoming Ireland’s first sprinter to claim a world title. Derval qualified safely from her heat in 7.93. Continuing her fantastic progression this season, Derval eased through to the final as the fastest qualifier in a national record 7.87s. In the final Derval lined up in lane three, between Spain’s Glorie Alozie and Susanna Kallur of Sweden. Showing great maturity, the 24 year old Cork woman led all the way from gun to tape to capture the World indoor title in a national record 7.84s. In the men’s 1500m final James Nolan was back to his best placing an impressive 6th in 3:43.98 Later today Alistair Cragg takes on the two Bekele brothers and Saaeed Shaheen in what will be a tough challenge in the men’s 3,000m. Media CoverageTears of frustration turn to gold for O’Rourke - IAAF Moscow, Russia - Despite an undefeated record in six competitions this season, Derval O’Rourke arrived in the Russian capital as an outsider, largely a little known quantity outside domestic circles. After achieving ‘Lucky Seven’ in Moscow, the 24-year-old from Cork will certainly be an outsider no longer. "I was nervous," O’Rourke admitted, "but everything was okay." ‘Okay’ is somewhat of an understatement to describe the Irishwoman’s Saturday afternoon and evening in Moscow. She lowered her own national record twice in her three races here to where it now rests, at 7.84, the second-fastest performance in the world this year. By any measure, a long way from the 8.02 with which she embarked on what would turn out to be her breakout season. Read More For further information please contact Elaine Fitzgerald Athletics Ireland 087-9782478