Powell fails to break Bolt’s record

Jamaican Asafa Powell failed over two attempts to break Usain Bolt’s world record in the 100 metres at the Rieti Grand Prix in Italy yesterday.



Powell clocked 9.77 seconds in his semi-final heat and then ran 9.82 to win the final on the same track where he set a then-world record of 9.74 a year ago.



Powell won ahead of his Jamaican teammate Michael Frater who posted 9.98.



Powell’s MVP Track Club teammates Shelly-Ann Fraser, Melaine Walker and Shericka Williams all produced wins at the meet.



The Olympic gold medallist Fraser registered another victory in the 100 metres, clocking 11.06 with joint Beijing silver medallist Kerron Stewart again second in 11.11.



Walker followed up her Beijing gold by crossing the line in 55.01 in the women’s 400-metre hurdles. She won ahead of Olympic bronze medallist Tasha Danvers of Britain who clocked 55.25.



Williams stepped down to the 200 metres to win in a personal best 22.50, ahead of American Carmelita Jeter who clocked 22.52.