Angels, Spanish Town — Orrin Powell threw the 800g javelin to a new distance of 70.22 metres to erase Robert Barnes' previous record of 68.91 metres, set at the 2003 edition of the GC Foster Classic, at yesterday's renewal.

Powell was elated. "I give thanks to God and my coach Marlon Gayle, the GC Foster staff and my training partners. I am aiming for the stars and this has come about by hard work. Last year I threw 51 metres and I opened my season with 61.48 metres and came second.

"I am feeling good and looking forward to the rest of the season," the former Vere Technical athlete said.

Coach Gayle was not surprised. "I am not surprised with his performance, as I was expecting something special. He has been doing well in training and I am expectant of better things to come."

Yesterday's meet comprised mainly senior athletes, as most of the junior athletes stayed away in preparation for this week's GraceKennedy Boys' and Girls' Championships.