IW DISCUS ace, Nick Percy, recorded the best result by a Scottish thrower in 60 years when he represented the country at the Commonwealth Games last week.

Fresh from his medal-winning success at the UK Athletics Championships in Manchester, the 27-year-old, from Bonchurch, came fifth with a throw of 63.53m.

His preparation for the Commonwealth Games could not have gone worse ­— contracting Covid on his return from the world championships in Eugene.

“I spent 12 days recovering from Covid, half of which was in bed, and I think the jetlag made the experience worse,” said Nick.

“While this is a reason for my result, it’s not an excuse ­— every athlete has hurdles to overcome, and some had worse injuries or bouts of Covid.”

Feeling under the weather, the Scottish record holder nonetheless threw 60.68m to qualify for the final.

Unable to match his 65.00m throw in Manchester, Nick said: “I love representing Scotland, and I’m proud of my performance, even if I am a little frustrated to finish just outside the Meadows.

“After the first three rounds, I felt I could improve, but it was not meant to be tonight.”

The discus dynamo fell only to athletes among the top ten in the world.

In every Commonwealth Games prior, his 63.53m throw would have yielded a medal ­— a testament to the high standards set.

“It was a high calibre competition,” said Nick.

“I’m ready to get back into training, to get ready for the European Championships in Munich, Germany, on August 17.

“This will be my third major championship representing Great Britain this year.”