Pic of the day

What’s better than winning Olympic gold? Having your mother on hand to present the medal.

In a summer of magical images, from Poznan to London, this snap, by Michael Steele of Getty, has to be one of the sporting pics of the year.

Irish Paralympic hero Michael McKillop landed his second gold medal last night, winning the T37 1500 metres race in a time of 4: 08.11, a new Paralympic record.

As the 22-year-old mounted the rostrum to receive his second gold of the Games, he spotted a familiar figure coming out to present the medal; his mother.

The sponsors arranged for Catherine to do the honours, with the arrangement a complete surprise to Michael.

“It’s a great honour to have your mum there – I don’t think it’s ever happened before. When she walked out into the stadium, I said to Brad Scott, who came second: ’That’s my mum’.

“I couldn’t believe it. He said: ’Just enjoy it. It’s something special.’ She congratulated me and said she loved me.”

Catherine is quoted as saying: “I was just so honoured – what a privilege to be given.

“Words can’t describe it. I’m so proud of Michael. It’s a memory that will stick with me forever – and an emotional memory at that.”

I think I have something in my eye so I am going to sign off now…