Greta Streimikyte set a new Irish record on her way into the final of the T13 1500m at the Paralympics in Rio.

The 21-year-old finished third in her heat in a time of 4.51.75 and qualified for Saturday's final as one of the fastest losers.

“Conditions were good, it wasn't too warm and there was no wind. It was tough, but I got through,” said Streimikyte after the race. “Now it is all about resting up and preparing for Saturday.

And the Irish runner said that she was not impeded by the tussle early in the race.

“It happens, it is a visually impaired race, so you get those things. It’s fine.

“We’re here to work hard and race hard, but you can’t forget to enjoy it as well. It’s all about enjoying what you do and you love.

The Lithuanian, who moved to Ireland in 2010, will take to the field for the final on Saturday.

“I think [my family] will be delighted, because I achieved their goal. I know how hard it was for my Mam and Dad to move to Ireland but I’m grateful to them that I am here.”

Streimikyte’s heat was won by Izaskun Oses Ayucar of Spain in a time of 4:49.99, with Tunisia’s Somaya Bousaid second in 4:50.87