Makwala saga caps disappointing night
Staff Writer | Wednesday August 9, 2017 16:27
Makwala, despite protesting that he was feeling fine, was barred from taking part in the competition, before medal hopefuls, Baboloki Thebe and Nijel Amos finished outside podium position in the 400m and 800m finals respectively.
Makwala was withdrawn just minutes before the 200m heats on Monday due to suspected food poisoning, but had expected to take part in the 400m finals 24hours later. However, IAAF officials barred the athlete who had looked in fine form and was expected to land a medal.
There was palpable disappointment as Amos, up first in the finals featuring local runners, could only manage a fifth place finish.French international, Pierre-Ambroisse Bosse emerged the surprise winner in 1.44.67 ahead of seasoned Polish runner, Adam Kszczot and Kenyan, Kipyegon Bett.
In the 400m, Wayde van Niekerk expectedly took the honours in the absence of Makwala, crossing the line in 43.98 seconds ahead of Steven Gardiner of Bahamas.
Abdalelah Haroun claimed bronze, finishing just ahead of Thebe in 44.66.
A campaign that promised so much is fizzling in disappointing fashion for an expectant nation, with only the men and women’s 4x400m relays to look forward to.