Gatlin pips Bolt
Six-time Olympic champion Usain Bolt said he will review the key
ingredients missing from his race after being pipped to victory in his
first 100 metre outing in Europe this season by American rival Justin
Gatlin.
Gatlin came into the Rome Golden Gala expected to challenge the world
record holder (9.58sec) on the back of two wins in the opening two legs
of the Diamond League in Doha and in Eugene.
Bolt, meanwhile, was making his first appearance on the continent
since his recent recovery from a hamstring injury.
The Jamaican surprised himself with a strong start but soon had
trouble finding the required rhythm and later admitted his traditionally
strong finish was absent.
Bolt, who will next compete in Oslo at the Bislett Games before
returning to Jamaica on June 14, said he felt no twinge from his
hamstring during the race but felt “a little sore” afterwards.
But he admits he has work to do ahead of the world championships in
Moscow later this summer.
“I got a great start. I think the fact that I did threw me off a
little,” said the Jamaican. “Normally the last 50 (metres) is the best
part of my race but it wasn’t there.
“But I’m not worried. I wanted to find out where I was at here and
now I will go home and look at the tape, see where I went wrong and come
out and do better next time.” Gatlin’s weaker start did not stop him
clinching the win with a dipped finish in a time of 9.94, his third win
in the Diamond League this season.But the 2004 Olympic champion, who
once served a four-year ban for doping, admitted his technique is also a
work in progress.
“Last season I was a really good starter, this year, it’s been a
little slower,” said the American. “I’m trying to get that back and get
the middle of my race stronger. “I just want to stay healthy. It’s a
long season ahead.” Olympic champion Allyson Felix settled for second in
the women’s 200m where Murielle Ahoure of Ivory Coast clocked a new
national record on her way to the win.
AFP
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