World season's leader Melaine Walker of Jamaica won the Beijing Olympic women's 400 meters hurdles with a new Olympic record of 52.64 seconds on Wednesday.

Sheena Tosta of the United States was left a far second in 53.70 seconds and the bronze medal went to Tasha Danvers from Britain in 53.84.

The former record of 52.77 was created by Fani Halkia of Greece in the Athens Games four years ago.

Walker added to Jamaca's pride minutes after her compatriot Usain Bolt claimed the men's 200m title, creating a new world record of 19.30.

After a hot performance this season, the 25-year-old Walker has rallied to go into the Beijing Olympic Games as a big favorite and had an impressive time in the qualifying rounds. She reached the final by clocking 54.20, 0.13 second behind Tosta.

On Wednesday, Their battle went on until the final straight where Walker pulled away from Tosta before finishing as a very comfortable winner.

The Jamaican national champion has remained undefeated at 400m hurdles this year.

(Xinhua News Agency August 20, 2008)