Johannesburg - Elroy Gelant struggled against a quality field but set a new SA indoor record in the men's 3 000m final at the World Indoor Athletics Championships in Istanbul, Turkey, on Sunday.
Gelant settled near the back of the pack from the start, and while he faded over the last few laps, finishing last, he crossed the line in a national best time of 7:48.64.
American Bernard Lagat defended his title, breaking clear on the final lap to win in 7:41.44.
Lehann Fourie got off to a superb start in the men's 60m hurdles semi-finals, clocking 7.65 seconds to book his place in the final later in the afternoon.
Fourie fell only 0.01 seconds short of his personal best, and drew lane eight for the final.