Jamaica’s Asafa Powell ran a grandstanding 6.44s to win heat 5 of the men’s 60m at the ongoing 2016 World indoor Championships in Portland, USA.
His feat was the standout performance of day two, and his time took him to 5th on the all-time list of the 60m, with Powell now the strong favourite to win the final later on Saturday. He even jogged towards the finish line and could have further lowered that time if he had wanted to.
Only four men have run faster than him: Maurice Greene in 6.39s, Andre Cason’s 6.42s, Dwain Chambers’ 6.43s and Tim Harden also at 6.43s.
There will be many more who will hope to pip Powell to the title. China’s Bingtian Su who won heat 4 in 6.64s and could be vying for a podium placement, as will be 2015 World outdoor 100m bronze medallist, Trayvon Bromell who finished with a time of 6.57s to take heat 3. Great Britain’s James Dasaolu comfortably won heat 2 in 6.59s.
Another person not to be written off is the oldest sprinter at the competition, St Kitts and Nevis’ Kim Collins who won heat 1 in 6.56s. Still competing at 39, Collins could be a surprise medal winner in the final.
However, Powell will be relishing the opportunity he has at becoming the first Jamaican athlete ever to win the 60m title.
