Guy Learmonth wins in Los Angeles

The European indoor finalist, 24, romped clear to win the 800 metres at the Occidental Invitational in 1:47.42, almost a second in front of American rival Sadiki White.

And the Lasswade prospect will now fly back from the States to hit the Grand Prix circuit in search of the standards required for Rio 2016.

“It was a nice comfortable win,” he said. “It’s now time to stick the neck on the chopping board, hit Europe and drop these times.”

Elsewhere, Hayley Haining – building up to this month’s Edinburgh Marathon – marked international return at the age of 44 with second place in the Lillebaelt Half Marathon, one spot ahead of fellow Scot Lesley Pirie – with Andy Douglas third in the men’s race.