BOGUE HILL, St James — Family members of Yohan Blake have expressed satisfaction at his silver medal at the London 2012 Olympic Games yesterday.

"I am very proud of him; he did us and Jamaica well. It's a great achievement, considering that he is going to the Olympics for the very first time," said the sprinter's father, Shirley Blake.

The race was won by defending champion Usain Bolt in a time of 9.63 seconds, while his training partner Blake finished second in 9.75 seconds.

American Justin Gatlin was third in a personal best of 9.79, while Asafa Powell placed eighth after pulling up with an injury.

The elder Blake was among a small group of family members and friends who watched the blue riband event on a television set at the family's Bogue Hill residence.

Minutes before the race, Yohan's sister Danietta Blake told the Jamaica Observer that she was a little anxious.

"I am a little nervous because this is a top race. There are a lot of good athletes in it, but I prayed about the race and I am hopeful that God will answer my prayer," she said.

Just before the scheduled start of the race all eyes were fixed on the television screen.

"Go Yohan! Go Yohan!" the small group shouted.

Seconds later it was all over.

The senior Blake expects his son to win the 200-metres later this week.

"I believe that he (Yohan) will take the 200-metre title. That will be his race," he said confidently.

Several other Bogue Hill residents echoed similar sentiments.

"I think Yohan will take the 200-metre race, and even though he did not win the 100-metre, I am still happy that he came second — that is a big achievement," said Marva Kerr.

Shirley Blake (second right) and wife Veta (right) are joined by their children and friends as they watch the Olympic men's 100-metre finals at their Bogue Hill residence yesterday. (Photo: Phillip Lemonte)