Fastest qualifier Reeves repeats Gift win

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By ALEX FAIR

BURNIE’S Daniel Reeves rates his second Devonport Gift title as  far more special than his first back in 2011.

Reeves took out the 400 metre Gift at the Devonport Oval on Tuesday night, in front of Henri Norton and Luke Whitney,  the 26-year-old self-trained runner winning in  46.99.

He won with a handicap of 19 metres, which was much different to his first title.

‘‘I do rate this one higher as I was on a back mark and a few years ago I was on a front mark,’’ Reeves said.

‘‘Having to chase everyone (is the difference) and I am also a much better runner now.

‘‘I’m not sure if I was confident going in, as I thought Ollie Wurm was a shoe-in after the heats, but I knew if I was within striking distance in the last 80 metres, I was going to give myself every chance.’’

Reeves was a strong force in the Gift through the heats.

He posted the fastest time of 47.66 to qualify for the final.