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News05 Mar 2004


Women 400m Heats

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No major surprises emerged as competition in the women's 400 metres began today. As expected, Natalya Nazarova began her title defense in the 400 metres with a commanding  51.77 win.  The 24-year-old Russian champion appeared unwinded as she finished comfortably ahead of Greek record holder Hrisoula Goudenoudi, who reached the line in 53.09.

Bahamian Tonique Williams was a bit faster with her 51.76 win in heat one.  The 28-year-old, who was fifth in Paris last year, finished ahead of Romanian hopeful Ionela Tirlea (52.00), the 1999 Indoor World Champion in the 200 metres. Briton Helen Karagounis advanced on time with her 52.66.

Fani Halkia, the Greek national record holder in the 400m hurdles, won the second heat in 51.77 over Catherine Murphy (52.18) and Svetlana Usovich (52.19) of Belorus.

Nazarova's teammate Olesya Krasnomovets, the third fastest this year, took heat three in 52.17 over American Julian Clay (53.04).

Jamaica was completely shut out of the tomorrow's semi-finals. Ronetta Smith (53.39). was the fastest non-qualifier.  The first two from each heat plus the four fastest losers advanced.

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