Atkinson qualifies for 50m breaststroke final

Jamaica's swimming sensation, Alia Atkinson, will be hoping to win her country's first medal at this year's FINA World Championships in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, when she contest today's final of the 50m breaststroke.

Atkinson booked her place in the final yesterday when she swam a personal-best 30.19 for second place in her semi-final, finishing behind Rebecca Soni of the United States.

The 22-year-old Atkinson had a previous best of 31. 91 in the event and has a great chance of copping a medal if she can improve on this mark, as the fastest time going in today's final is 29.96.

Atkinson, who is also down to compete in the 200m breaststroke and 100m individual medley, has been in impressive form this season, winning four gold medals at the Central American and Caribbean Games (CAC).

She also made the final of the 50m breaststroke at the Commonwealth Games in Delhi, India, in October.

Atkinson is one of two Jamaicans participating at the World Championships, the other being Victoria Ho, who made the senior national team for the first time at the CAC Games.

Ho, who will bow into action tomorrow, has enjoyed improved performances in her favourite events - the 200m and 800m freestyle - this year.