byStuart WeirThe men’s races featured some exciting events in Stockholm. With the wind and cold adding drama to the events, the big races delivered some big performances. Here’s what Stuart Weir had to say!
Micheal Norman, photo by PhotoRun.net
The most eagerly awaited race on the track at the Bauhaus-galan IAAF Diamond League was the men’s 400. Michael Norman was the favorite on the back of his 43.45 last month. The 21 year-old Norman duly won in 44.53, with Rai Benjamin second in 45.13, and Michael Cherry 3rd in 46.30.
Norman looked exhausted after the win and was seen sitting between interviews. In fact he took a long time to recover his composure. When he did, to his credit, he fulfilled every interview request and also signed autographs and posed for selfies for all who wanted them. He is a superb athlete and a fine young man.
Norman, said of his day’s work: “Today was challenging, both mentally and physically – and there’s a lot of things I need to work on. I’m not particularly satisfied with my race. I particularly need to work on the second part of the race but it’s a long way to the world championships. I’ll continue to work hard with my coach and see where that gets me”.
Rai Benjamin, in second place, commented: “it was pretty even until Michael went away from me at around 350m. Considering the conditions – the cold and the wind – I’m pleased with my time”.
In other men’s races, Aaron Brown (Canada) took the 200m in 20.06 from Ramil Guliyev (Turkey), the world champion, with Jereem Richards (Trinidad and Tobago) third. Amel Tuka (Bosnia and Herzegovina) won the 800m in 1:46.68. Timothy Cheruiyot won the 1500m with 18 year-old Jakob Ingebrigtsen third. Rhonex Kipruto took the 10,000m in 26:50.16.
Rhonex Kipruto took the 10,000m in 26:50.16, a PB by 30 seconds! photo by PhotoRun.net
