| Thursday, 20 August 2009 13:43 | |
| Caster Semenya: He or She won 800m gold by a country mile |
 Caster Semenya South African athleteSouth African Caster Semenya, 18, recorded a stunning victory in the women's 800m final in Berlin on Wednesday night.
But her powerful performance was overshadowed by allegations surrounding her gender.
The student's muscular physique and quick rise to the top of the sport have sparked widespread speculation.
The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) has confirmed it demanded a gender test three weeks ago amid claims Semanya should not be allowed to run as a woman.
Speaking exclusively to Sky News Online, her coach, Michael Seme from the University of Pretoria, said he had every confidence in his new star.
"That's my girl, I know I'm coaching a girl and I'm not worried about that," Mr Seme said.
"I'm worried about helping her improve and improving the standard of athletics in South Africa. That's my job.
"Our plan is gold in 2012. It's a three-year plan and this is the start.
"I know that I am coaching a girl - a girl who is doing well. She is a brave athlete and she wants to listen to the coach and study."
The South African athletics federation issued a statement saying it "would not have entered her in the female competition if we had any doubts".
Semenya's winning time was an amazing 2.45 seconds quicker than defending champion Janeth Jepkosgei. Britain's Jennifer Meadows took the bronze.
The sports science student from the University of Pretoria did not attend the post-race news conference.
Mr Seme added: "She doesn't know anything about what the newspapers are saying. She doesn't listen to it, it won't disturb her."
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