Gail Devers’ quest rolls on. Running comfortably and restrained, the 37-year-old 60 metres world champion won her semi-final in 7.88, putting her one step closer to her unprecendented double attempt.
Behind her, the battle for the three additional spots was a fierce one. Flora Redoumi of Greece provided the biggest surprise after her runner-up finish in 7.91, a Greek national record. Swede Susanna Kallur and Linda Ferga-Khodadid, a two-time European indoor champion, claimed spots three and four, with each reaching the line in 7.92.
But the first semi was even faster.
After a sluggish start, Perdita Felicien switched gears after the third hurdle to win the first semi in a photo finish with American Joanna Hayes, with both clocking new personal bests. For Felicien, last year’s outdoor champion, it was a Canadian national record as well.
Jamaican Lacena Golding-Clarke continues to improve, finishing third here in 7.86, also a personal best. Finishing fourth was 2001 bronze medallist Nicole Ramalalanirina of France (7.98)
For Golding-Clarke, the 2002 Commonwealth champion, Budapest may be shaping up to be a family affair. Her husband Davian, raced to the silver medal in the 400 on Saturday.
