James posts world leading time in 400m

by Michael Bascombe

NEW YORK, February 27, 2011 - Grenadian star athlete Kirani James ran a race of his life as he won the men’s 400m in a world leading time of 44.80 seconds at the 2011 Southeastern Conference Indoor Championships (SEC) at the Randal Tyson Tack Centre in Fayetteville, Arkansas on Sunday.

James was compelled to go into his reserves after watching Tony McQuay of Florida won the first of the two section event in 45.21, ahead of race favourite and world leader Torin Lawrence of Georgia (45.82).

The Grenada native and Alabama sophomore completed the first bend in 21.19 seconds and then left the rest of the field as he powered his way to win in a world leading a new SEC record of 44.80 seconds.

He also posted the fastest junior men’s indoor time (not officially recognised by the IAAF) beating the earlier mark of 44.93 by LaShawn Merritt of the USA six years ago.

The only person to run faster than Kirani James over the 400m indoor was Kerron Clement (44.57) at the same track on March 12, 2005.

Also in winners’ row at the SEC Championships was Colleen Felix in the women’s triple jump. From the start she was never challenged and posted 13.20m in her first attempt. She bettered her effort in the fourth attempt with the winning jump of 13.50m.

The other Grenadian in the IAAF Top List is Rondell Bartholomew with 45.84, a time he clocked on the same track two weeks ago.

In an immediate reaction, Sports Minister Patrick Simmons congratulated all three athletes on their splendid performances over the past few weeks.

Simmons said that the Government of Grenada will continue to support our sportsmen and women as they carry the nation’s flag.

“On behalf of the government and people I would like to congratulate Kirani and Colleen on their performances this weekend and also commendation to Rondell and the other athletes who continue to excel,” he said.