A grudge match between Britain’s Daniel Caines and American Tyree Washington developed after the heats on Friday when Caines accused Washington of excessive contact.
Today, Caines gladly let Washington take the lead after 200, but he stayed close to the American and then dusted him off at the finish, 46.24 to 46.50.
David McCarthy had a close view of the action, as the Irish runner finished in a qualifying third with 46.61, eliminating European indoor champion Marek Plawgo of Poland (46.82).
Other notable runners falling out of action in this section were Belgium’s Cédric Van Branteghem (47.01) and David Canal of Spain (47.17).
The first section saw Jamie Baulch of Great Britain take the lead over Australia’s Daniel Batman after 200.
Batman coasted down the backstretch and overtook Baulch coming into the final turn, as Ireland’s Paul McKee was mounting a charge which he carried to a surprising 46.24 win, a national record and the same as Caines winning time. Baulch was able to come back and pip Batman at the end, 46.74 to 46.76, as both advanced to the final.
Two Irish in the World Indoors 400 Metres final? The world has turned upside down.
