Wariner beats Merritt at Rome event by 1/100th of a second

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Talk about swift role reversal.

Last week, Olympic and world champion Jeremy Wariner was upset at the U.S. Olympic trials after coming in second to LaShawn Merritt in the 400-meter race. Today, Wariner beat Merritt to win the 400 at Rome’s Golden Gala, 44.36 seconds to Merritt’s 44.37.

According to wire reports, Wariner had a big lead but suddenly found himself battling a late surge from Merritt.

No doubt Wariner will have his hands full in Beijing since Merritt beat him at the track and field trials in 44 seconds flat and at the Berlin Golden League meeting on June 1 with a time of 44.03.

-- Debbie Goffa