Sanya Richards wins 400 at Athens
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American Sanya Richards dominated the women’s 400-meter race at the Athens Grand Prix today, winning in 49.86 seconds.
At the U.S. Olympic track and field trials last weekend, Richards won the 400 in 49.89 seconds.
In today’s IAAF race in Greece, she was challenged near the end but the 2005 World Championships silver medalist had more than enough power to increase her lead and collect the victory.
Jamaica’s Novlene Williams was second with 50.54 , while American Mary Wineberg clocked 50.58 for the third place.
On the IAAF (International Assn. of Athletics Federations) website, Richards has been checking in on occasion with readers as part of the IAAF’s online diaries. You can read it in full but here is an excerpt:
On her races in Eugene...
I was very pleased with my final race at the Olympic trials. I wanted to run a bit faster for the first 200 metres but with the heavy headwind I had to run a more tactical race and conserve a bit to ensure I had a strong kick coming home. I felt relaxed and strong and was happy to secure my spot for Beijing!
-- Debbie Goffa