Cameron Crombie has set a world record in winning gold for Australia on the opening day of the World Para Athletics Championships in London.
The Canberra-based Crombie claimed victory in the men's F38 shot put event, which includes athletes with neurological impairments.
He smashed his personal best with a world record of 15.95 metres, vindicating his move to athletics from rowing after missing out on selection for Australia's Paralympic squad last year.
"I'm a bit lost for words. This is fantastic, I couldn't have hoped for a better result. I wouldn't have dreamt it," Crombie said.
Crombie, who grew up in Newcastle, is coached by Hamish MacDonald, who won Paralympics gold for Australia in the men's F32-33 shot put at the 1996 Atlanta Games.
MacDonald also won two world championships in the F34 classification, his major championships experience no doubt rubbing off on Crombie.
"Being at the world championships, there's a bit more pressure than there is at home, but my coach and I always knew there was more in the tank," Crombie said.
"The pieces came together today, but I'm not sure if it's really sunk in yet."
The 31-year-old Crombie was almost joined on the podium by fellow Australian Martin Jackson, who placed fourth with a best effort of 13.31m.
