Wayde sneaks into 200m showdown
ENERGY RESERVES: VAN NIEKERK FANCIES HIS SHORTER SPRINT CHANCES
Global sprint star Wayde van Niekerk admitted he had hoped to go faster in his 400m final, though he was pleased to reserve some energy during a challenging schedule at the IAAF World Championships.
Van Niekerk became only the second South African athlete after higher jumper Hestrie Cloete (in 2001 and 2003) to successfully defend a track and field world title on Tuesday night.
With his strongest challenger, Isaac Makwala of Botswana, forced to pull out of the race after picking up a virus, the 25-year-old rocket from Bloemfontein was well clear of the rest of the field and took his foot off the pedal as he coasted across the line.
Though he was nearly a full second outside his world record of 43.03, he finished 0.43 ahead of silver medallist Steven Gardiner, representing Bahamas.
“I just couldn’t catch my stride, and over the last few metres I looked up at the screen and noticed how far ahead I was,” Van Niekerk said.
“Immediately I thought of my health, and realising I still have two more rounds (in the 200m), I thought if the time isn’t going to come there’s no use for me to push all the way to my limit.”
While compatriot Akani Simbine was eliminated after finishing seventh in his half-lap semifinal last night in 20.62, held in wet conditions, Van Niekerk just managed to sneak into tonight’s final, grabbing third spot in his race in 20.28.
Aiming to become only the second man after American great Michael Johnson to win the 200m and 400m world titles, Van Niekerk was feeling confident of his chances in the shorter sprint.
“It’s easier said than done... (and) this competition is very unpredictable, but I know I’ve got the ability,” he said. “My body still feels very good.” Van Niekerk was among the nation’s last significant medal hopes at the biennial showpiece, along with 1 500m bronze medallist Caster Semenya, who was due to compete in the women’s 800m heats tonight.
After five days of competition, the SA team had earned four medals (two gold and two bronze) and they required one more to bag a record haul.
... this competition (200) is very unpredictable, but I know I’ve got the ability.
Wayde van Niekerk