Britain's Amy Williams set the pace in the first two rounds of the women's skeleton event at Whistler.

The 27-year-old is on course to claim Britain's first medal of the Vancouver Olympics after setting a new track record of 53.83 seconds on her first run.

Her combined time of 1:47.96 after two runs gives her a substantial lead of 0.30 seconds and, if she can maintain her form in Friday's final two runs, could win a shock gold medal.

Team-mate Shelley Rudman, who won the silver medal in Turin four years ago, is joint seventh after two rounds.

Williams said after her performance: "I don't really think about times but it felt really messy. I love this track. I've got to keep level-headed though and sleep well. Thanks to everyone at home for staying up late to watch!"