Zibabwean veteran Kirsty Conventry smashed the world record in the women's 100 backstroke semifinals on Monday, shaving 0.20 seconds off the previous record set by US swimmer Natalie Coughlin.

Conventry, the Athens silver medalist of the event, led all the way to the finsh and touched in 58.77 seconds. The previous record of 58.97 was set by Coughlin at the US Olympic trials in July this year.

Conventry said she herself was surprised at the world record-breaking performance. "I thought I'm good. I'm going to make it into the final. So I slowed my tempo down a little bit. I wasn't expecting it."

Conventry's parents and boyfriend were at the Water Cube to witness the exciting moment. "I swim really well when I'm feeling happy and my life is balanced, also with my parents and boyfriend in the crowd."

Conventry, seen as national treasure of Zimbabwe, has been training hard in hope to continue her Athens glory.

"I try to keep the ball rolling, training hard and pressing. I have been in great form. I expect nothing but fast fast swimming tomorrow morning," an excited Conventry said.

Conventry won three medals in the Athens Games, including one gold in the 200 backstroke.

Coughlin ranked second in Monday's semifinals in 59.43 seconds.

(Xinhua News Agency August 11, 2008)