By Noel ‘Bravo’ Francis, Special to TrackAlerts.Com
The IAAF World Challenge meet in the iconic Bird’s nest stadium on Wednesday May 20, 2015was highlighted by two world-leading runs by America’s David Oliver and South Africa’s Wenda Nel. Oliver, the defending World Champion who has fond memories of the stadium where he won his first Olympic bronze medal, ran 13.15 seconds to eclipse the previous world’s best mark (13.16) by fellow American, Aleec Harris. Cuba’s Orlando Ortega just as he did in the Shanghai Diamond League on Sunday claimed the runner-up spot in 13.37 seconds and U.S.A.’s Ronnie Ash was third in 13.43 seconds.
Wenda Nel destroyed a talented field in the women’s 400m hurdles to claim victory in a world-leading and personal best time of 54.37 seconds. Some of the top names that trailed Nel included Tiffany Williams (55.22), Lashinda Demus (55.86) and Georganne Moline who recorded the same time as Demus.
The Caribbean dominated the women’s short sprints on the day. Trinidad & Tobago’s Michelle-Lee Ahye won the 100m in 11.05 seconds and Jamaica’s Veronica-Campbell-Brown won the 200m in 22.68 seconds. The men’s 100m saw a 1-2 finish for American teammates Marvin Bracy and Mike Rodgers. Bracy, the World Indoor 60m silver medallist, won in a personal best 9.95 seconds ahead of Rodgers who crossed the line in 9.99 seconds.
Russia’s Olympic champion Anna Chicherova won the women’s high jump with a 1.94m effort while China’s Guowei Zhang took the men’s equivalent in 2.34m ahead of countryman Yu Wang who cleared 2.31m.
About the Author:
Noel ‘Bravo’ Francis is a very exciting and creative freelance sports writer specializing in the fields ofathletics and cricket. His colourful down to earth yet professional personality makes him a favourite amongst athletes and fans. Readers are often exposed to his detailed knowledge and passion which usually increase their interest in the athletes, events and the sport overall. He has a first degree in Banking & Finance and works in the financial industry. Contact Noel at [email protected]
