byStuart Weir
Dina Asher-Smith, photo by Diamond League AG
This is the second piece of 3 by Stuart Weir, and he focused on the Brits who competed in Brussels.
Brits in Brussels
The women’s 800 meters was a contender for the race of the night. As she did in Tokyo, Natoya Goule (Jamaica) made a brave front-run, after the pacemaker had gone round in a suicidal 56.99. Goule held on to win with GB taking second and third place. Keely Hodgkinson finished second in 1:58.16, again finishing just ahead of Jemma Reekie (1:58.77).
Keely Hodgkinson said of the race: “I really wanted that win today. I came really close, but Natoya Goule is class. She is a bit older so I still have time. I felt okay when going into the home stretch. This season was a whole new experience. I am not used to this. But it has been a dream. To achieve all these amazing things is unbelievable. I couldn´t be happier. Of course, I can say I have a bit of talent. but I worked hard for this and I am surrounded by an amazing team who supports me all the time.”
Dina Asher-Smith was third in the 200min 22.04 behind Christine Mboma (Namibia) in 21.84 and Shericka Jackson (Jamaica – 21.95). Dina’s time was her third-fastest time ever. She commented: “I´m so happy with my race! I ran a season’s best and had a good feeling. It felt so good to be here and to be able to run this fast. I worked so hard after my injury to return and feel strong again. I really love to run here in Brussels. I still have a few races to go so I hope I can improve myself and feel good. The relaxed feeling is back so I´m very happy with that”
Eilish McColgan was 7th in the 5000m in 14:31.26.
Cindy Sember was fourth in the 100h in 12.79
Harry Coppell cleared 5.50 in the pole vault. Failed at the next height and then withdrew.
Chris McAlister was seventh in the 400h in 50.09.
