American sprinter Ryan Bailey said he expected boos, but sorry the Jamaican fans weren’t louder during Saturday’s Jamaica Invitational.
Bailey was criticized all week, mainly on social media, for his throat slashing gesture of Usain Bolt’s “to Di World” signature pose after USA beat Jamaica at the IAAF World Relays in Bahamas on May 2.
Boos rang out around the Stadium from Bailey took his first practice run from the blocks on Saturday night. He was again booed after the race, during the presentation ceremony and even when he was making his way out of the Stadium.
“I knew the crowd would have done this (boo me) and my only regret was it was not louder,” said Bailey, adding, “I surely would have run much faster.”
Bailey ran 9.93 to finish second behind Asafa Powell, who did a world leading 9.84secs.
“I am satisfied with the result despite a very sluggish start,” said Bailey of his performance.