Risa sets sights on London

Japan's Risa Shigetomo is a step closer to London 2012 after winning the Osaka women's marathon.

Japanese star setting sights on London after Osaka victory

Japan has a now Olympic hope in their marathon ranks after Risa Shigetomo claimed the Osaka international women's title in just her second race at the distance. The 24-year-old crossed the line two hours 23 minutes and 23 seconds after pulling clear in the final stages of the race. Pacemakers carved out a good early rhythm for Shigetomo before she galloped clear of the field, and she made no secret of her desire to challenge for a medal at London 2012. "It's been my dream to compete in the Olympics," said Shigetomo. "I hope I can make this victory a good stepping-stone to the London Olympics. When I ran my first marathon in London last year, I couldn't run at my own pace, so I'm glad I did today. "Pace-setters made the early rhythm and I just tried to follow them." Shigetomo broke free at the 27km stage and left compatriot Kayoko Fukushi trailing in her wake as she could only finish in ninth place. Ukrainian runner Tetiana Gamera-Shmyrkocame home in second in a time of 2:24:46 with Japan's Azusa Nojiri in third with 2:24:57. Shigetomo gained even more confidence as Beijing Olympic gold medallist Constantina Dita of Romania trailed in way behind her back in 11th with 2:40.08. Osaka was the second of three qualifiers for Japan's three spots in their team for London, with the final Olympic qualifier in Nagoya on March 11.