Stephanie McPherson of UTech tops the world

University of Technology’s Stephanie McPherson ran another world leading time for the women’s 400 metres at the UTech Classic at the National Stadium yesterday.

McPherson who clocked a world-leading and personal best 50.78 seconds for the distance at the inter-collegiate championships a week ago, lowered her time to 50.74 but she still felt she could have done better.

“I wanted to run a faster time but the heavy wind affected me, but I am looking forward to the remainder of the season as I am hoping to make the National team to the World Championships this year,” McPherson, a former Mannings’ School student, said after winning her event yesterday.

G.C. Foster College’s Anastasia Leroy continued her good early season form, placing second in 53.54 as her former high school teammate, Bobbi Gaye Wilkins-Gooden, in her first competitive race in two years, was third overall in 53.67.

Scare for Blake

Olympic 100 metres silver medallist Yohan Blake gave his supporters a scare in the men’s 100 metres which was being run at press time. Blake stopped half way the event which was won by St Kitts’ Kim Collins. An official from Blake’s camp said the athlete felt some stiffness in his hamstring during the event and decided not to complete the race.

The men were less impressive in the 400 metres. Edino Steele of Racers Track Club clocked a pedestrian 46.34 just getting the better of Pete Matthews who was second in 46.36.

Racers’ Anssert Whyte continued his good progress in the 400 metres hurdles, as he captured the event in 50.79 seconds to get the better of teammate André Clarke, 51.43.

Fine Throw

There were some good displays in the field events with G.C. Foster College’s Raymond Brown leading the way with a fine throw of 19.25 metres to win the men’s shot put open. In the women’s event, UTech’s Geneva Greaves won with a throw of 14.50 metres.

In the women’s 200 metres, Racers’ Shillone Calvert clocked the fastest time, 23.64, in the time final. MVP’s Shericka Williams who won her heat in 23.70 was second fastest.

London Olympics 200m bronze medallist, Warrren Blake, was the fastest among the males at press time after clocking 20.33 seconds to win the opening heat.

“I am very focussed this year and I am looking forward to make the team to the World Championships,” Weir said, after his run.

Article by Raymond Graham, Jamaica Gleaner