Rutherford leaving nothing to chance at Worlds

Rutherford became Olympic champion at London 2012 and since then has added European and Commonwealth gold to his collection.

But a world title still eludes the 28-year-old and he is hoping a purpose-built long jump runway and pit in his garden will help him onto the podium.

Rutherford's dad is a builder and has constructed the runway, and the Olympian says any edge he can gain over his rivals could prove vital in Beijing.

"I realise it's a huge luxury but if that's what is going to help me become world and Olympic champion it's a worthwhile investment," said Rutherford.

"I'll use it for my run-ups and any short sprinting because it's 52 metres long. I can put decent 50-metre sprints down. It'll be a good training base. I've already got the gym, now I've got the track.

"It started off as a bit of a dream, now it's becoming reality. I've found with the gym I can go and work at half 10 at night. If you don't feel great at six, you can push it back. That's the massive benefit of having it at home."

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