Baptiste’s golden night in Dehli

Leon Baptiste was crowned the 200m Commonwealth champion for England in Delhi. The London-born sprinter clocked 20.45 seconds ahead of the fast-finishing South African Lansford Spence.

The 25-year old set a new personal best in the semi finals with 20.43, form he continued in the final.

“My coach [Michael Khmel] and I had a plan about six to eight weeks ago,” said Baptiste. “We decided to get ourselves in the best shape possible. We came out with a plan and things paid off. When you’re injured for a long time you get all these doubts.”

“Steadily I’ve improved every year since 2005 – that’s the only reason I’ve carried on. I feel really proud. I can’t wait to get home and see my family and enjoy the moment.”

“My aim was to make the final and to come out with a gold medal is just a bonus.”

“The last serious medal I won was in 2003 at the European junior championships in the 100m. That was a big high point in my career.”