Dan Greaves secured England's first gold in the athletics today with a comprehensive win in the men's Para-sport discus throw in the F42/F44 class.
The 31-year-old, who is making his Commonwealths debut in Glasgow, threw a best of 59.21m and secured 1023 points to take the title ahead of Wales's Aled Davies, who settled for silver with 46.83m.
Moments after his victory at Hampden Park, Sports Mole caught up with Greaves to reflect on his triumph.
You're now a Commonwealth gold medallist, Dan. How does that feel?
"It's still sinking in, but it feels absolutely amazing. I've worked so hard for it this year, it was always in the back of my mind. I knew it was going to be a tough competition with Aled, in our combined class, but on the points system it was touch and go. I've been really consistent this year on my throw, so I knew that if I could just pop one out, like I've been doing regularly in the other competitions this year then it would be enough, and luckily it was.
"I just count my blessings that I'm actually Commonwealth champion. It won't sink in until I actually get my medal - and I probably will cry a little bit! But yeah, it is an amazing feeling. Having had two silvers from London and the Worlds, which didn't go to plan last year, this just makes up for it in abundance. You've got to keep your eyes on the prize and that's what we've done this year. Just never give up really."
Did you have to be at your best to win the gold?
"Yeah, it was probably my second- or third-furthest throw this year, so it was right up there. I got 60m in a quiet competition in Loughborough under no real pressure, but in a stadium like this, the crowd were fantastic. It had the whole essence of London 2012 all over it, and I really fed off that. That's what gave me the edge. I tried to stay calm, but I'm over the moon."
How big a role does the crowd play in pushing you on?
"It plays a massive part. It can be your worst enemy at times - but with London we're well used to that [big support] and I really lapped it up, obviously being a home Games, and it felt very similar today. I think the Scots did a fantastic job in encouraging me on, and there were lots of English flags in the crowd, which was really nice to see."
Barney Corkhill
