Americans are leading the way in rewriting the record books at the 2008 World Masters Indoor Athletics Championships in Clermont-Ferrand, France. The competition will continue through Saturday.

U.S. masters stars setting records include Val Barnwell, who set a new M50 world record in the 60 meters. Barnwell crossed the finish line Tuesday in 7.18 seconds, in a performance that would have won the M45 age group title. His time bettered the previous M50 world record of 7.20 seconds set by Bill Collins in 2002.

Other record setters include Charles Allie, who defeated Aussie great Peter Crombie in winning the M60 200 meters in 24.95 seconds. Allie's time bettered the previous record of 25.10 seconds set by American Larry Colbert in 1998. Additionally, American Ida Keeling finished the 60 meters in 31.82 seconds, which is reportedly the first time any lady has competed in that event in the W90 age bracket. WMA does not list a world record.