Bulgaria's Lalova 'Knew' She Was to Win European Sprint Title

Bulgaria's top female sprinter Ivet Lalova, also known as the fastest white woman in the world, has arrived back home in Sofia after winning the European Title in the 100 m sprint at the European Track and Field Championship in Helsinki, Finland.

Lalova was met with much excitement and lots of flowers by friends, fans, and reporters at Sofia International Airport Monday. Smiling, she stated she had been convinced she was going to win the European Title in the 100 m sprint.

"I left for Helsinki with the ninth result in Europe because I suffered an injury in May but I had been convinced I was going to become first. It was a very hard road, there are no easy wins. I wish to be healthy, and to have my chances," the European sprint champion told reporters, as cited by BGNES.

"I thank everybody for this welcome. There is nothing better than people's love. The London Olympics are close, and I have no intention of becoming overly confident or proud. I do realize the great difference in these two contests," she added.

"The London Olympics will be a totally different contest. The two great powers in spring – USA and Jamaica – are already declaring their intentions. Let's be realistic – it will be a great success for me if I make it to the final in London. I wish to confirm that I am the best in Europe," Lalova said further.

Bulgaria's Ivet Lalova, also known as "the fastest white woman", has triumphed with the European Title in the 100 m sprint at the European Track and Field Championship in Helsinki, Finland.

The 28-year-old Bulgarian sprinter ran the 100m in 11.28 seconds, leaving behind Ukraine's Olesya Povh (11.32) and Lithuania's Lina Grincikaite.

This is the biggest success in the career of the Bulgarian star athlete and the first medal from a major open athletics championship.

It is also the first medal for Bulgaria from a short-distance sprint event at a European championship.

The 100 m final was a very closely contested race, with Ukraine's Olesya Povh leading until the last 30 meters, when Lalaova managed to outrun her.

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