Shaheen tames Kenyans to retain steeplechase gold

SAIF SAEED SHAHEEN had his Olympic eligibility blocked by the Kenyans last year but he replied in the best possible fashion last night when he retained his world steeplechase title at the expense of the Olympic gold and silver medallists.

Shaheen, who switched his allegiance to Qatar and changed his name in a wave of controversy pre-Paris two years ago, won an enthralling contest there for the title, but last night it was no contest at all as he took control of the race a long way out to win in 8:13.31 from the Kenyan pair, Ezekiel Kemboi, and Brimin Kipruto.

Kemboi, the Olympic champion, was second in 8:14.95, with Kipruto third in 8:15.30.

“Today’s race was very much easier than Paris,” Shaheen insisted. “I tried a different tactic than how I usually run and it worked well. I was alone for most of the race and the Kenyans did not bother me at all. I knew they were very good but after five laps I was sure that I was home safe.”

Bershawn Jackson (USA) posted a new career best at 47.30secs to win the men’s 400m hurdles title on a damp track at Helsinki’s Olympic Stadium last night with the defending champion, Felix Sanchez (Dominican Republic), dogged by injury all season, failing to finish the race.

US team mate James Carter, ran a personal best 47.43secs for second place and the bronze medal went to Dai Tamesuse (Japan) in 48.10.

The Russian Tatyana Andrianova, the world leader, arrived as favourite for the women’s 800m title but she had to settle for the bronze medal as the Cuban Zulia Calatayud, who finished last in Athens, raised her performance to take the gold medal in 1:58.82, with Hasna Benhassi (Morroco), the Olympic silver medallist, second in 1:59.42. Adrianova finished third in 1:59.60.