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Clement dominates men’s 400m hurdles

Posted August 28th, 2007 at 10:30 AM by Jamal Walker

Section: News & Results, Track & Field, Special Features, Live Race Coverage

Kerron Clement (Gainesville, Fla.) made good on his considerable talents in the men’s 400m hurdles Tuesday night, winning the event in impressive fashion at the 2007 IAAF World Outdoor Championships at Nagai Stadium.

The two-time USA and Visa Outdoor champion had to wait for his moment of glory. Upon taking their marks and entering the set position, athletes were called out of their blocks by the starter. On the second attempt at a start, Felix Sanchez of the Dominican Republic false started. The third time was the charm as the race finally got off cleanly.

The field was even through the first three hurdles, led by Clement, Sanchez and USA champion James Carter, but 200 meters into the race, Clement made a bold move that put him well clear of the field. The world record holder indoors at 400 meters, Clement possesses world-class sprint speed, but problems with stutter-stepping over the final hurdles have at times held him back.

Save a few steps before the last hurdle, there was virtually no such issue Tuesday night, as Clement entered the straightaway with a commanding lead and kept it, crossing the line in a world-leading time of 47.62 seconds. Clement was overcome with emotion at the finish, celebrating a victory that established him as a pressure-situation performer.

2004 Olympic champion Sanchez finished second in 48.01, with Marek Plawgo of Poland setting a national record in placing third (48.12). Carter (Raleigh, N.C.) was fourth in 48.40, and Derrick Williams (Fayetteville, Ark.) was seventh in 52.97, suffering from a calf cramp.

Written by: Jill Greer
Via: USA Track & Field