Men’s 60m hurdles final
After winning silver at this event in 1989, 1993 and 1997, few neutrals would have argued against Colin Jackson finally striking gold in Maebashi. But the world record holder for 110m hurdles – was pushed to the limit by the American champion Reggie Torian. In fact, when the race finally got underway after three false starts, it was Torian – a graceful technician – who took the early lead. He maintained his advantage right until the run in but Jackson made an extraordinary dip for the line – and was given the verdict: 7.38 to 7.40. But so close was the finish that the American Team demanded to see the Photo Finish Film because they thought Torian’s shoulder had crossed the line before Jackson. But the rules clearly state that it is the torso – and not part of an extended arm – that should cross the line first. After seeing the film, the Americans accepted the verdict.
Gold Medallist - JACKSON Colin (GBR)
"I think Reggie (TORIAN) hit the last hurdle which made it easier for me and I
just flew into the line and lunged like hell!
The most important thing for me today was that the officials were recalling all the false
starts. That is vital because in times gone by they have let many go without recall. Right
from the beginning of the heats they were very strict over false start and this encouraged
me to stay calm even after three false starts in the final.
I was just focusing on myself. I told myself it's me running here, I can't control the
others' performances. I just believed in myself and knew they would all have to run very
quickly to prevent me from reaching the gold.
I always believed Reggie would be my main rival and he proved that again here.
I think the result here in Maebashi shows that I and my coach know how to prepare and this
should silence any doubters."
Silver Medallist - TORIAN Reggie (USA)
"I am not congratulating him (JACKSON) yet as a winner. I want to watch the race
again and again via TV.
I had a decent start and I felt relaxed all the way. At the last hurdle I thought that I
had got it. I saw Collin leaning and so I stretched my arm out. I thought I won by at
least half an arm.
When two high calibre racing machines meet, there is always going to be a tight finish. I thought I had it all the way. I do not know how they can separate us (in the photo finish)."
Bronze Medallist - BALZER Falk (GER)
"I won the World Cup, was second in Budapest and got third here. I guess this
completes the series. In the semi-final I only run about 80% which was a mistake. I was
not expecting to run so well in the final, but on the other hand I should have done
better. The false starts did not really bother me, if anything they helped me!"
