The Williams sisters - Danielle and Shermaine - turned in creditable performances to book automatic qualifying spots in the semifinal of the women's 100m hurdle.

Danielle, the national champion running in heat one beat American Kendra Harris in a time of 12.77 to win her heat while her sister Shermaine, running in heat four, finished second in a personal best 12.78 to qualify for the semi-final.

Shermaine was beaten by American Brianna Rollins who ran 12.67.

Kimberly Laing qualified  for the semi-final as one of the fastest losers after finishing sixth in heat three in 13.10 seconds .

Laing faded badly in a field led by America’s National champion, Dawn Harper Nelson who won the heat with a time of 12.79.

The semi-finals for the 100m hurdles will take  place Thursday at 6:25 a.m.