Kenya’s Wiseman Were one of the three fastest losers in the men’s Olympic 400m hurdles at the Stade de France on Monday, but we made it to the semi-finals anyhow.
The Commonwealth Games bronze medalist ran 48.58 seconds to finish fifth in the fourth heat, which was won by Jamaican Clarke Roshawn in hot early morning weather in Paris.
Interestingly, Italy’s Alessandro Sibilion, who finished fourth in 48.43 seconds, and the Netherlands’ Nick Smidt, who ran a season best 48.64 seconds, both went to the semifinals from the same heat that produced the five fastest times.
“It was a tough one but I am happy I have qualified for the semis. The bigger target is now to make it to the final. You know how it feels when you reach that level. Next step I will now plan on how to be on the final,” said Were.
Reigning champion and world record holder Karsten Warholm safely sailed through after winning his heat in 47.57 seconds.
Also progressing with ease were the Norwegian’s main rivals for gold: American Rai Benjamin and Brazilian Alison Dos Santos.
The semi-finals are scheduled for 20:05 Kenyan time on Wednesday, with the final slated for 22:45 on Friday.
Meanwhile, national champion Zablon Ekwam has expressed his heartbreak at the injury that ended his Olympics prematurely on Sunday in the first round of the men’s 400m.
Ekwam appeared to have damaged his hamstring halfway through the race and was visibly distraught as he lay motionless on the ground while the rest of the racers raced to the finish line.
“I came here with a lot of ambitions knowing I’m going to be the best. I know when I stepped on the line, I saw greatness. This is something to be proud of because it’s a rare opportunity to compete at the Olympics.”
Despite his Olympics debut coming to an abrupt end, Ekwam has promised his fans he will come out strongly.
“I had planned for other races this year and now I will be forced to discuss with my management. If not possible then I will plan for next season. I know I will have a good recovery,” he added.
He was the only Kenya’s representative in the one-lap race at the ongoing Summer Games.
