Beth Dobbin reaches 200m semi-finals at World Athletics Championships

Beth Dobbin after her heat at the World Athletics Championship in Doha

Beth Dobbin admitted nerves may have got the better of her despite securing her place in the semi-finals of the 200m at the World Athletics Championships in Doha.

The Doncaster athlete finished third in her heat in a time of 23.14s, edging through to the next stage with what she termed as a disappointing performance.

“It felt quite hard,” she said afterwards.

“I was hoping for a quicker time but I’m through to the semis and that’s the main thing.

“The warm-up felt good but maybe I got just a bit too nervous for my first World Championships.

“I’m through to the semis though.

“Now it’s just above recovery, icing, treatment and getting my food in before a good night’s sleep for tomorrow.”

Dobbin – daughter of former Doncaster Rovers, Barnsley and Rotherham United midfielder Jim – will compete in the second of three semi-finals which begin at 7.35pm on Tuesday.

Britain’s top medal hope in the event is Dina Asher-Smith, who won silver in 100m on Sunday and was the fastest qualifier in the heats.