Noah LYLES was impressive on the 100m, running a fast time of 9.86(852). The American rising star knew if he got well out of the blocks, he could come for the win. Behind him was Christian COLEMAN who crossed the finish line in 9.86(858).
Speaking of incredible performances, Abderrahman SAMBA broke the Meeting Record and set a new World Lead, clocking 47.27. The Qatari athlete was followed by the young USA hurdler, Rai BENJAMIN (47.80).
In the 5000m men, Yomif KEJELCHA declared he was amazed with his performance. Finishing in 13:04.16, he established a new World Lead ahead of Selemon BAREGA (13:04.71) and Hagos GEBRHIWET (13:04.83).
3000m steeplechase World record holder Beatrice CHEPKOECH added a Shanghai Meeting Record to her collection of honors after running in 9:04.53. “It is nice to start the year with a 9:04 having opened last year with a 9:07 time. My speed endurance is strong and now the aim is to improve my speed as the season progresses.” said the Kenyan runner.
Morocco’s athlete, Rababe ARAFI also set a new World Lead in the women’s 1500m race, winning in 4:01.15. In this fast race, six women finished under 4:02!
“I feel a bit lucky with the way the tip landed on my first throw. The wind was swirling around and I think lots of throwers had difficulties today because of that. 87m for my season opener is not a bad start.” declared Andreas HOFMANN. The German javelin thrower, set a new World Lead thanks to this 87m throw.
Salwa Eid NASER and Sydney McLAUGHLIN’s performances should also be mentioned. The two quartermiles clocked their race in 50.65 and 50.78.
© IAAF Diamond League
