Sebrle takes early lead in decathlon title defence

GOTHENBURG, Sweden, Aug 10 (Reuters) World record holder and defending champion Roman Sebrle took the early lead in a rain-disrupted decathlon at the European championships today.

The 31-year-old Czech opened with a modest 10.98 seconds to finish second in his 100 metres heat for 865 points and seventh place overall.

He went into the lead after the long jump which was suspended mid-competition due to a torrential downpour.

But the break did not appear to affect Sebrle who leaped 7.72 metres on his second jump, the best effort of the competition, for 990 points.

After two events, the Olympic champion has a total of 1855 points, 37 more than Germany's Stefan Drews.

''To be honest I expected a better 100 metres time,'' Sebrle said. ''I had a good start but we felt the wind.'' With the long jump I must be satisfied. After the break, because of the rain, I was able to jump 7.72. That is very good.'' France's Romain Barros, the leading decathlete in Europe this year, was in 16th place on 1671 points after performing way below his personal bests in the two disciplines.

Hungary's world championship bronze medallist Attila Zsivoczky was a further 20 points adrift in 21st.

The decathlon continues on Thursday with the shot put, high jump and 400 metres.

REUTERS AY KP2115