Teenage swimming debutante Lakeisha Patterson has claimed Australia's first Paralympic gold in Rio, winning the women's S8 400m freestyle in world record time.
The 17-year-old led from the 100m mark and hit the wall in 4mins 40.33sec, shaving 0.11s off the previous mark held by American Jessica Long, who finished second.
It was a huge triumph for the Queenslander over Long, who is a 12-time gold medallist.
"I knew I had to attack and not let go. I knew she was right behind me," Patterson said.
"She has been my idol growing up and to race alongside her and to get past her is amazing... I felt quite bad. She has achieved so many things and I have come out of nowhere.
"I did not think my first Games would end up like this."
Long, a four-time Paralympian, said she knew it would be a tough race against the rookie.
"Lakeisha did a great job so I am happy to hold on for the silver," she said.
"I had to overcome some injuries to compete, so it is a good result."
Earlier on Thursday (Friday AEST), para-cyclist Sue Powell claimed Australia's first medal by taking out silver in the women's C4 3km individual pursuit.
