Aussies Starc and Denny finish second in Ostrava

IN-FORM Australian high jumper Brandon Starc and versatile thrower Matthew Denny have both finished second representing the Asia-Pacific team at the Continental Cup in Ostrava.

Starc entered the twoday meet in a rich vein of form, having equalled the long-time Australian record and won the Diamond League title in recent weeks. The 24year-old couldn’t quite emulate that in Ostrava, although his best clearance of 2.3m was still good enough for second spot on countback behind winner Donald Thomas, representing the Americas.

Denny’s second-placed finish in the men’s discus was more unexpected, with his best throw of 63.99m coming in the opening round.

“It’s a great competition, it’s a different concept but the crowd got into it and everyone seemed to really enjoy it,” Denny said.

“I’m happy with 63.99m, it’s near my best and it’s been a long season and we had to prep again to come over here, but it gave me a good insight into knowing that I can perform when I need to.”

Competing for the first time since May after overcoming a wrist injury, 2017 world championship silver medallist Dani Stevens was fifth in the women’s discus with 62.74m in an event won by Cuban Yaime Perez (65.30m).

“I’m really excited to be here at the Continental Cup,” Stevens said. “I’ve had a bit of a break since competing at the Commonwealth Games and was a little bit rusty but I managed to get through it all.”

Commonwealth Games silver medallist Henry Frayne was fourth in the long jump.

The Americas team held the overall lead with 135 points at the halfway stage of the two-day competition ahead of defending champions Europe (123), Asia-Pacific (89) and Africa (74).