Beijing next for Sotherton

Heptathlete running into form in time for Olympics Kelly Sotherton remained on course for Beijing after defying the medics to claim victory in the Four Event Challenge at the Aviva Grand Prix. The 31-year-old damaged an abductor muscle during Friday's hurdles event, when the race had to be re-run following the mis-alignment of some of the third hurdle. She was advised to skip the shot putt and 200m but wanted to test herself just a fortnight before the Olympic Games, and the gamble paid off as she racked up 3964 points, beating nearest rival Gi-Gi Johnson on 3813. The Olympic bronze medallist produced a solid shot effort of 14.36m and despite holding back, then managed second place over 200m with a time of 23.63seconds. "It was great to win this weekend," said Sotherton. "My jump was fantastic, the shot good as well, and... [read full story]