Nene powers into 400m final at World Athletics Championships

ZAKITHI Nene stormed into the final of the men’s 400m on Day 4 of the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo yesterday, the South African one-lap star maintaining his composure after two restarts, but compatriot Lythe Pillay failed to advance to tomorrow’s decider.

- ROWAN CALLAGHAN

Nene looked relaxed before and during the first semifinal, which he won in a fast time of 44:20, despite coasting over the final 100m.

Lee Bhekempilo Eppie of Botswana finished in second in a time of 44.51.

Pillay, the reigning World University Games champion, could only manage sixth place in the second semifinal in a time of 44.82.

Young Collen Kebinatshipi of Botswana was the surprise winner in a remarkable time of 43.61while pre-championship favourite Jaccori Patterson of the US faded badly to finish fourth, and only advanced on time.

The 21-year-old eclipsed Nene’s previous world lead of 43.76.

In fact, it was a bad day on the National Stadium track for the favourites.