Sport

Smyth back home for Belfast Games

FOUR-TIME Paralympic gold medallist Jason Smyth is just one of a number of top class athletes who will be competing in the Belfast International Games on June 25.

The meeting marks the opening of the recently-refurbished Mary Peters Track and features teams from the North, the Republic, England, Scotland and Wales.

It will be Smyth's first competition back on this side of the Atlantic after spending the winter at his training base in Florida.

His season has not started particularly well stateside, with his running times below his expectations.

Smyth (right) will be looking to turn that around with the help of the home crowd as he strives for a qualifying time for the World Championships in Moscow this August.

Belfast mayor councillor Máirtín Ó Muilleoir will be present along with Sebastian Coe, the chairman of the British Olympic Association, to unveil a statue to Mary Peters.

"This is a fantastic event for everyone involved and a demonstration, ahead of this year's World Police and Fire Games of how important this track is going to be in attracting high level competition," said Ó Muilleoir.

"The facilities are world-class standard, but are also being used by schoolchildren and local athletes still striving to reach international level.

"This competition is an inspiring opportunity for everyone in the city, not just those directly involved in sport.