American Bryan Clay wins men's decathlon gold at Olympics

Gold medalilst Bryan Clay (C) of the United States, silver medalist Andrei Krauchanka of Belarussia and bronze medalist Cuba's Leonel Suarez show their medals during the awarding ceremony for the men's decathlon at the National Stadium, also known as the Bird's Nest, during Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. Bryan Clay won the title with 8791 points


Bryan Clay of the United States, silver medalist four years ago in Athens, finally won the men's decathlon gold at the Beijing Olympic Games here on Friday.

The 28-year-old collected 8,791 points, a new Olympic record. Belarus' Andrei Krauchanka won the silver with 8,551 points and Cuba's Leonel Suarez took the bronze with 8,527.

Clay, also the 2005 world champion, took the lead from the start, and he was never threatened for first place. He topped disciplines including 100 meters, long jump and discus throw. He lied on the track after finishing the 1,500 meters race, the last event, exhausted.