17-year-old Queenslander Lakeisha Patterson has won Australia's first gold of the Rio Paralympics, taking out the women's S8 400m freestyle in world record time.
Patterson led from the 100 metre mark and shaved 0.11 of a second off the world record that was previously held by her hero, American Jessica Long.
Lakeisha 'Lucky' Patterson and Australia's first gold medal of the Paralympic Games. Congrats Lucky! #WeBelieve
“It was pretty surreal really. I knew I had to attack and go out hard and keep fighting for it, and I knew she was right behind me, so I just had to keep going forward,” Patterson said following the race.
“Jess is an amazing and fierce competitor, and to be able to race alongside her and get past her was bitter sweet because she has been my idol growing up. So to race alongside her, and end up on top is quite amazing.”
Fellow Australian Maddison Elliott just missed out on the bronze, finishing fourth.
Earlier in the day Sue Powell won Australia's first medal of the games, taking out silver in the individual pursuit cycling.
Happy days! @702Suep is beaming after winning Australia's first medal of the Games; a silver. #WeBelieve
Meanwhile, Carlee Beattie won bronze in the F47 long jump.
BRONZE for Carlee Beattie in the F47 long jump. Congratulations Carlee! #WeBelieve
So just FYI, our female athletes are killing it right now.
