Nene powers into 400m final as favourites falter

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 Bhek-empilo 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.