Thomas Barr wins heat to progress to semi-finals

Thomas Barr eased through to the semi-finals of the 400m hurdles after winning his heat at the European Championships in Munich.

Drawn on the inside lane, Barr raced clear of the field in the opening half of the race, first over the hurdles throughout and maintained that clear advantage through to the final bend.

The Waterford man, who famously finished fourth at the Rio Olympics in 2016, was pushed all the way down the home straight by the Netherlands athlete, Ramsey Angela, inside him, but despite a slight stride correction on the final hurdle, Barr used his quick finish to take it on the line.

Barr's time of 49.49secs was the fourth fastest of the four morning heats with the semi-finals set to take place on Thursday morning. France's Victor Coroller clocked the quickest time of 49.35secs to win the opening heat.

Rhasidat Adeleke races in the 400m final at 9.22pm tonight, while heptathlon hopeful Kate O'Connor is also in action.