Brits in Brussels
GB was well represented in the Diamond League Final in Brussels, with some athletes wanting to build on a good season and others wanting to salvage something after a disappointing Olympics.
Men’s 400
A solid British performance was expected in the men’s 400, but the night’s performance was unexpected. Olympic silver medalist Matt Hudson-Smith was the favorite in the race, but he pulled up about halfway around, leaving Charlie Dobson to win in 44.49 from Kirani James. Dobson commented afterward: “The race went really well. I was really able to push myself tonight. I could never have imagined winning tonight, so I am so happy. I just tried to run my own race and to enjoy myself. This is really promising for next year”.
Women’s 100m and 200m
Dina Asher-Smith was second in 10.92 behind her training partner, Julian Alfred, and Darryl Neita fourth in 11.14. The times reflect that it was a bitterly cold evening. Asher-Smith said: “I’m really happy for Julien; she’s continuing her journey as the champion that she is. At the end of the day, you always want to run fast. It doesn’t matter if it’s the season’s first or last race. Of course, I wanted to win, but I am pleased that Julien, with whom I train daily, and I finished 1 and 2. This performance has encouraged me a lot for next year. I’m used to European weather, but it was still cold today. Paris was frustrating for me. It sucks, but I was glad to rectify it afterward. So, bar one day, this has been a good year”.
Neita said: “I am happy to get through it healthy in one piece because it was freezing, and I wanted to run in all my layers. I did my best, but I’m thrilled with the season I’ve had. Not so much after the championships, but I wanted to show myself I could keep going. Next year will be a really long season, and I know when I need to be ready, I’ll always be ready. I’m really proud of myself for finishing”.
