WATCH: Thomas Barr finishes third on Diamond League debut

By Stephen Barry

Ireland’s rising star over hurdles Thomas Barr claimed a podium finish this evening in his first IAAF Diamond League appearance.

The 22-year-old from Waterford clocked close to his personal best, hitting the line in 48.99 seconds to take third place in the 400m hurdles in Doha.

The Ferrybank athlete came storming into contention at the finish but was beaten to the line by Bershawn Jackson, who achieved a world leading time of 48.09 seconds, and Javier Culson (48.96).

Barr is the younger brother of 2012 Olympian Jessie Barr, who was quick to bring him back to earth after a huge performance…

Not that her younger bro was bothered:

Thank you so much to everyone for all the messages, I'm feeding off the buzz it's created!! Delighted with the run!!!#OnAHigh #IrishTakeover

— Thomas Barr (@TomBarr247) May 15, 2015

You can check out the race here – Barr runs in the yellow singlet:

Impressive racing by Thomas Barr on his Diamond League debut in Doha. https://t.co/PhMJmmZw9h

— Kieran Cunningham (@KCsixtyseven) May 15, 2015

Nice run by @sensorpro athlete, @TomBarr247, backing up his season opener and taking on the worlds best!💪 48:99 pic.twitter.com/HyioHTcAEa

— nTrai (@nTrai1) May 15, 2015