Sprint king Bolt signs off with relay world record

DAEGU: Sprint superstar Usain Bolt brought the world championships to a thrilling end as his Jamaican team smashed the world 4x100metre (m) relay record on the last night of action in Daegu.

It was Bolt’s second gold of the worlds after winning the 200m crown and marked a fairytale ending for the sprinter.

Jamaica’s team of Nesta Carter, Michael Frater, Yohan Blake and Bolt got off to a flyer and never looked like being caught, Bolt stretching every sinew to cross the line in 37.04 seconds with France taking silver and St Kitts and Nevis bronze. Bolt was delighted at the superb show put up by his team.

“For me it was just to go out there fast,” said Bolt. “We did just that. I’m proud of my team, I’m happy with myself. Blake ran a great bend - I’m happy with that.”

Farah wins 5,000m gold

Meanwhile, Mo Farah ensured Britain ended the worlds on a high with the 5,000m gold.

Farah won a thrilling battle down the home stretch to take gold, putting behind him the frustration of just missing out on the 10,000m title.

Farah was pushed hard by 2007 champion Bernard Lagat of America but found the strength to stay in front ahead of his American rival.

“It hasn’t sunk in yet,” said Farah after the win. “It was key to wind it up and not let anyone go past me.”

Savinova denies Semenya

Russia’s Mariya Savinova denied Caster Semenya a second consecutive women’s 800m title, nipping past the controversial South African for gold.

The reigning world indoor and European champion timed her run to perfection, coming from near the back of the pack at 600m to clinch the victory.

Semenya, looking to bury controversy over her true gender, took silver with Kenya’s 2007 champion Janeth Jepkosgei claiming bronze.

Earlier, Abel Kirui romped to marathon gold on the streets of downtown Daegu to seal a marathon double for Kenya.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 5^th,  2011.