It was the fastest time ever run by the 24-year-old from Derry and 0.01 inside the A-qualifying standard set by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF).

But the wind reading of 3.6 metres per second was significantly higher than the legal limit of 2.0. 

Smyth, who is visually impaired, won the 100m and 200m in the T13 category at the 2008 Paralympics in Beijing.

Like South Africa's Oscar Pistorius, he is aiming to qualify for both the Olympics and Paralympics at London.

The track in Clermont is where Smyth trains regularly with former world 100m and 200m champion Tyson Gay and is his favourite venue.

He ran his personal best of 10.22 there a year ago and last month clocked 10.24 at the same venue. 

His next opportunity to chase the Olympic qualifying standard is at the Diamond League meeting in New York next Saturday (June 9). 

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


Related stories
May 2012: Smyth's Olympic dream gets closer as the Irishman impresses in the 100m in Florida
May 2012: Ireland rest biggest London 2012 hopes for European Championships
January 2012: I'll never stop with the Paralympics despite my Olympic dream admits Smyth
December 2011: Smyth back in US as he targets London 2012 double
August 2011: Blind sprinter joins amputee Pistorius in selection for IAAF World Championships