SPORT PAGES | 04-05 PAGE | 07 After making history Northern in , Asher-Smith Superchargers ropepe in shifts focus to Stokes as The Tokyo Olympics Hundred launcheded

Friday 4 October 2019

September 27 - October 6 Moment of truth: Barshim ready for biggest show on home soil

FAWAD HUSSAIN THE PENINSULA HIGHHIGH JJUMPU FINAL AT DOHA WOLRDS Soon after easing into the men’s high StartsS at 8:15pm today jump final, rated himself the ‘favourite’ to win gold  ForFor the fifirstr time since 2009 the athlete who leads the I am happy to compete medal. If the Qatari superstar marks the aannualnnual list has not jumped over 2.36 or higher. here and hopefully I will do highest leap today, he will not just make the hard job in the final. It the hosts proud but will also enter the  From 20120133 until 2018 Qatar’s Mutaz Barshim consistently history books. brokebroke ththee 2.2.4040 mark. is really great to jump in A victory today will make Barshim, front of home crowd, and who clinched gold medal at the 2017  Two-timeTwo-time champion (CUB) has cleared with your family and wife in World Championships, only the 2.40 outdoorsoutdoo or more on 17 occasions. Barshim leads the the stands, this has become second high jumper in the world to win ranks of tthoseh who are still active with 11, followed by BoBogdangdan BBondarenko (UKR) who has registered 7. very special. It is giving me two world titles. Cuban great Javier extra motivation: Barshim Sotomayor, who also holds the world  2.292.2 was enough for Syrian Majed El Dein Ghazal record of 2.45m, was the first high to medmedala in 2017 but clearing the same height in jumper to do so. ququalifyingalify proved insufficient for Andrii Protsenko The stage looks set for Barshim after (UKR),(UKR( ), (ITA) and Fernando Ferreira to 2.35m to win the -USA match he enjoyed a flawless run to the final, (BRA)(BRA to make it to the final. JaCorian Duffield (USA) in Minsk less than a month ago, has leaping to 2.17m, 2.22m, 2.27m and appeared as his toughest opponent. andand Protsenko also failed to reach the final in 2015 season best 2.29m on first attempts, and Authorised neutral athletes Ilya ddespitees jumping 2.29 in what it was the toughest that too with clear margins. Ivanyuk and have qualifyingqua session-along with the 2017 edition- in The 28-year-old Qatari displayed also enjoyed good season, topping tthehe history of the World Championships. a lot of confidence during the opening 2.33m and 2.31m. round, despite his difficult build up for  OfOf those aathletes eligible to compete only 22 met the of Ukraine, the the competition. fourth-place finisher at the 2016 Qatar’s Mutaz qualifyingqualifying standardstan of 2.30. Barshim’s perfect performance in , topped a 2.31m sea- Essa Barshim the first round has raised expectations  IfIf Barshim wins the crown, he will match Sotomayor’s tally son’s best to win the of home fans, who are expected to fill reacts after ofof two World CChampionships gold medals, but will still rank in August. the 48000-capacity Khalifa Interna- qualifying for the behindbehind him sincesin the Cuban has won two silvers to Barshim’s Ukraine’s Bogdan Bondarenko, the tional Stadium today to watch their hero men’s just oneone.. 2013 world champion, who topped perform. And the lanky athlete hopes final on Tuesday. 2.31m earlier this season despite con- he will not let the fans down, promising tinuing struggles with injury also have his best show. Barshim suffered an injury last year thinking about the ordeal with gold in a personal best of 2.43m, has things in the potential to go big. Syria’s Majd “I am happy to compete here and that ruled him out for many events, fol- his sights. his favour as only four finalists have Eddin Ghazal, won the Asian title in hopefully I will do the hard job in the lowing a dream run in the 2017 season “I am happy, no complaints,” he successfully sailed over 2.33m this Doha in April with a leap of 2.31m will final. It is really great to jump in front during which he won every compe- said before tipping himself to retain season. also be eyeing a podium finish together. of home crowd, and with your family tition, and the IAAF World-Athlete-of- the crown. But, the Qatari can still face a lot of Abderrahman Samba is the only and wife in the stands, this has become the-Year award. But, the London “I’m always the favourite. It doesn’t resistance on his way to achieve glory. Qatari so far to clinch medal at the very special. It is giving me extra moti- Games bronze medallist and Rio matter where I compete,” he said. World leader Maksim Nedasekau, the ongoing championships with a bronze vation,” said Barshim. Olympics silver medalist, was not In today’s final, Barshim, who has 21-year-old Belarusian, who improved medal in men’s 400m hurdles.

China’s Gong Lijiao competes in the Women’s Shot Put final during the 2019 IAAF Athletics World Championships at the Khalifa Bahrain's Salwa International Stadium in Doha, yesterday. Gong won the gold medal Eid Naser winning with a mark of 19.55m. the women's 400m final. Naser clocked a time of 48.14 secs to win her maiden World Championship title. 02 SPORT FRIDAY 4 OCTOBER 2019

September 27 - October 6 Action and celebration on Day 7 at packed KIS

Britain’s Katarina Johnson-Thompson reacts as she competes in the women’s shot put heptathlon heats, yesterday.

FROM LEFT: Silver medalist Quentin Bigot of France and gold medalist Pawel Fajdek of pose for a picture with bronze medalists Wojciech Nowicki (Poland) and Bence Halasz (Hungary) after a medal ceremony for men’s hammer throw, yesterday. PICTURES: ABDUL BASIT/THE PENINSULA AND AGENCIES

Australia’s Cedric Darrell Hill of the US during Dubler in action men’s shot put event. during men’s decathlon pole vault at Khalifa International Stadium (KIS) yesterday.

Poland’s Pawel Wiesiolek in action during decathlon pole Vault.

BELOW: Fans watch proceedings on Day 7 of the IAAF Championships Doha 2019 at the Khalifa International Stadium. INSET: China’s Gong Lijiao competes in the women’s shot put heats.

An athlete during the women’s triple jump qualifying round. Athletes fear for livelihood with DL events at risk

REUTERS Norway’s Ola Stunes Isene greatly depending on the country American discus thrower Valarie DOHA competes in the men’s discus where the event is held. Allman said of the Diamond throw final at the 2019 IAAF Yet winners of events on the League. Before he began competing in Athletics World Championships Next year they could IAAF World Challenge circuit Olympic champion shot lucrative Diamond League make $5,000 -- half of what a putter Michelle Carter predicts at the Khalifa International remove my biggest meetings, Norwegian discus Stadium in Doha on Monday. first-place finisher at a Diamond an exodus from her discipline if thrower Ola Stunes Isene moved income. I’m not mad League event receives. it is cut from the Diamond back to his parents’ home with at them but I hope The IAAF, the global gov- League programme. his girlfriend because he could erning body of athletics, said it “It’s going to be really hard not make a living from the sport. they can understand had held a series of meetings to keep women in the sport if “That’s not the best thing to throwers too: Ola with athletes so they “could they cannot financially provide do when you are in a rela- Stunes Isene express their views and ask for themselves, which has always tionship,” said the hulking questions about the changes to been an issue for field events,” 24-year-old. the Diamond League next year”. said Carter. Having earned 10,000 euros voting at the end of the day,” he “The aim is to enhance the Carter is one of the field ath- ($10,990) at Diamond League said. commercial and fan appeal of letes who has embarked on meetings this year, Stunes Isene “Hopefully they can hear our our global series, which ulti- projects on the side that could will move out again when he cry.” mately will benefit the athletes,” support her if she loses her returns to Norway from the Speculation is rife that field Daniel Stahl was equally frus- Diamond League champions the IAAF said in a statement. Diamond League income. World Athletics Championships events such as the discus and trated at the prospect of the dis- in every discipline receive prize The format of the Diamond She gives public speeches in Doha, yet his financial triple jump could be sidelined, cipline being removed from the money of $50,000. Eighth-place League would be reviewed at the and runs a girls’ sports camp freedom might not last. and some of the world’s top ath- Diamond League. finishers in the Diamond League end of each season, it added. aimed at empowering young A new Diamond League letes are objecting. “I think that it’s ridiculous,” final go home with $2,000. For many events there are no athletes. On her website, the format, which will be announced “Next year they could the Swede said. The winners of Diamond other meetings that bring American sells necklaces in detail later this month, will see remove my biggest income,” Christian Taylor, four times League events leading up to the together the best athletes and engraved with “I can” like the the number of events brought Stunes Isene said. triple jump world champion, said final each receive $10,000, down yield significant prize money. one she wears in competition. down from 32 to 24 in an effort “I’m not mad at them but I the Diamond League was his to $1,000 for the eighth-place “With the financial aspect “If need be I’ll have to really to create a faster-paced meeting hope they can understand livelihood. finishers. and the prize money, it’s a com- attack those to make up for the that is more palatable to tele- throwers too.” “I can speak up but there are The prize money at non- petition that you can’t make up income but I hope I won’t have vision viewers. Discus world champion people at the table who do the Diamond League meetings varies for by doing other meets,” to until I retire,” she said. FRIDAY 4 OCTOBER 2019 SPORT 03

September 27 - October 6 Six Qatari-owned colts vie for France honours

PARIS File pictures of the Qatar Arabian Trophy Des Poulains THE PENINSULA race at Saint-Cloud, Paris. The final declarations for the Qatar Arabian Trophy Des Poulains (Gr1 PA) has been issued featuring 10 quality colts, including 6 for Qatari connec- tions. metres at Deauville in August. attempt, winning the Prix Nez The 2000m black type race, Zalej Al Cham started his career D’Or in front of Zalej Al Cham for 3-year-old colts will start at in July and it was a promising and Battash De Faust In July. 02:24 pm Paris time (03:24 pm debut when he finished second He finished third behind Doha time) at Saint-Cloud, Paris in the 1900-metre Prix Nez D’Or Amyr Du Soleil in the French today, setting the mood for the at La Teste Buch. He returned to Arabian Breeders’ Challenge- 2019 renewal of the Qatar Prix the same venue later in the Poulains (Gr2 PA)when he was de l’Arc de Triomphe weekend month to win the Prix Akbar over last seen. at ParisLongchamp on October the same distance. The other four contenders 5 and 6. The Abdullah bin include the Mrs J F Bernard- H H Sheikh Mohammed bin Mohammed Al Attiyah-owned trained JARIF who will be ridden Khalifa Al Thani’s Amyr Du Soleil and Mrs J F Bernard-trained by Jean-Bernard Eyquem. The and Methgal will be there part- Battash De Faust will be ridden bay colt of Dahess ran once only nered by Julien Augé and Maxime by Guillaume Guedj-Gay. The when he finished sixth behind Guyon, respectively, in the chestnut colt of AF Albahar was Amyr Du Soleil in the French famous blue and white starred unbeaten in his most recent two Arabian Breeders’ Challenge- colours. the Thomas Fourcy- outings. He won the Prix Poulains (Gr2 PA). trained Amyr Du Soleil is coming Djourman over 7 furlongs at La The Philippe Sogorb-trained to Saint-Cloud with two victories Teste Buch in August. Later, he Emporio will have Jimmy Martin under his belt. 1,900 metres at La Teste Buch in Texas won the Diar International Cheminaud and Jerome Cabre in won the Prix Saint-Laurent over as his partner. The chestnut colt The grey colt of Amer has July and the French Arabian Stakes (Gr3/ PA) over 1400m at the saddle. The two chestnut the same distance at Dax in of Josco Du Cayrou has finished had three outings in his career Breeders’ Challenge-Poulains Newbury in July. He finished fifth colts of Azadi are trained by September second in his two runs so far; first so far. He had a promising debut (Gr2 PA) over 2000 metres at behind Amyr Du Soleil when he Thomas Fourcy. In his penul- The Mohamed bin Fahad Al- in the 2100-metre Prix Dahman when finished second in 2000- Toulouse in early September. was last seen in early timate run, Mounjared Al Cham Attiyah-owned and Francois at Dax in August and finally in metre event at Toulouse in June. The Julian Smart-trained September. was the runner-up behind Amyr Rohaut-trained Good Des Vial- the French Arabian Breeders’ He, then, remained unbeaten in Methgal is also a group winner. Al Shaqab Racing’s Du Soleil the Prix Tidjani (Gr3 ettes will have Francois-Xavier Challenge-Poulains (Gr2 PA) his last two outings when he won In his second and penultimate Mounjared Al Cham and Zalej Al PA). He then finished third in Al Bertras astride. The grey colt of behind Amyr Du Soleil. the Prix Tidjani (Gr3 PA) over call, the grey colt of Tm Fred Cham will have Vincent Rayyan Cup (Gr1 PA) over 2000 AF Albahar scored in his second AL NOURY MOR is Thomas Al Shahania eye full points against Umm Salal: Coach Murcia

THE PENINSULA improved Al Shahania DOHA “Al Shahania are improving after every game. Their players Al Shahania will be desperate to are great fighters, so I expect a open their account in the points keen battle. This game is very table when they face Umm Salal important for us. in Week 6 of the 2019-20 QNB “We respect Al Shahania and Stars League at the Al Arabi know that they’ll try to score Stadium today. their first points. We hope all our Bottom-of-the-table side Al players will be ready for the Shahania, coached by Spaniard game. Jose Murcia, would hope to post “We won three points last their first victory in this season’s week and if we win this week tournament sooner rather than too, we’ll be in a better position. later, while Umm Salal will def- I’ve spoken to the players and initely target their second win, asked them to do their best to having been off the blocks win because these three points slowly. are very important to us,” said The Orange Fortress could Caneda. taste victory only last week Meanwhile, Qatar SC coach Action from the QNB Stars when they put it across Al Wesam Rizik said his team had League match between Al Wakrah 2-1. a big challenge on hand against Wakra and Al Gharafa at Al Al Shahania lost 0-1 to Al Al Ahli. Wakrah Stadium. Duhail last week. “We’ve a tough task on hand, Umm Salal, under the especially because our position tutelage of Raul Caneda (also isn’t good in the standings even from Spain), have four points. though we scored our first win The other point came from their last week, against Al Khor. It has drawn encounter with Al Rayyan had a positive impact on the Late goal gives Al Duhail full points in the very first round. However, players’ morale. The team needs their form dipped since then. to continue to work in all Al Shahania, the promoted upcoming games. THE PENINSULA Action from ruled out for offside to the relief of side in the 2018-19 QNB Stars “Al Ahli have many good DOHA QNB Stars Duhail players and coach Rui Faria. League, would not want to get players. They play in an Iraqi striker Mohanad Ali scored a beau- And they were delighted when Ali, League relegated, whereas Umm Salal offensive style, have good tiful goal in the dying moments of the after receiving a pass near the centre match are targeting a finish among the quality professional players and game to help Al Duhail SC beat a battling circle slalomed his way into the box between Al top sides. So the contest is sure a reputed coach, so the game Al Sailiya in the Qatar Stars League before unleashing a grounder past Duhail and to be fought keenly. will be fought keenly. yesterday. Khalifa Aababacar in the 90th minute. Al Sailiya “We know we’re facing Al Ahli coach Ruben de la The win took Duhail provisionally Al Gharafa missed a chance to join yesterday. Umm Salal, who won last week Barrera said Qatar SC is a dif- to the top of the table with 14 points, but Duhail at the top when they were held against Al Wakrah, but we aren’t fcult team Sailiya would feel unlucky not have to a 3-3 draw by Al Wakrah. focused on it. Rather, we’re “Playing against Qatar SC taken something out of the game, espe- Gharafa took the lead through focused on winning three points will be very difficult. We’re cially that they had a goal ruled out for Ahmed Alaaeldin in the 18th minute, to improve our position in the seeking win against Qatar SC by offside. only for Wakrah to draw level in the very table, Murcia said. putting up a strong performance Youngster Khaled Mohammed put next minute through Mohamed Beny- “We’ve been training well and thereby compensate for the Duhail ahead with a thumping long ettou. Khalid Muneer then put Wakrah and the players’ morale is high. loss in our last two games, range shot in the 24th minute, but Sailiya ahead but Adlene Guideoura drew level We aren’t bothered about other against Al Gharafa and Al equalised through Abdulrahman as the teams took the half-time break teams’ results. If we get three Rayyan. We’ve prepared well for Mohammed, who remarkable com- at 2-2. points, we’ll be better. It’s this match. posure to snatch a loose ball just outside Ousmane Koulibaly once again gave important for us to have confi- “We want to pressurise the the area and beat Amine Lecomte with Wakrah the lead in the 57th but Gharafa dence in our abilities. I’m con- opponents and score goals. We a measured shot, in the 31st minute. equalised three minutes later through fident that in the near future must avoid mistakes that we Sailiya thought they had taken the Koo Ja Cheol. things will change positively in committed in the last moments, lead in the 84th minute after Nadir Bel- In the other match, Al Wakrah and the team,” Murcia added. as happened in the games hadj’s free-kick hit Almoez Ali on the Al Gharafa played a thrilling 3-3 draw Umm Salal coach Caneda against Al Gharafa and Al knee and went inside, but the goal was at Al Wakrah Stadium. said that they will face an Rayyan. 04 Sport FRIDAY 4 October 2019 FRIDAY 4 October 2019 Sport 05

September 27 to October 6

on medals in Olympics, which is just month’s away. “It’s less than a year away so we’re already After making history in thinking about it. We’re in a continuous cycle, when the last one ends you start thinking about the next one. I don’t think there’s any time that you’re not thinking about the Olympics,” the Doha, Asher-Smith shifts Briton said at a post-race press conference. Speaking about her historic triumph for Brit- ain, Asher-Smith said the future is bright for her country in sprint. “It feels good because as women in sport we focus to Tokyo Olympics always try and push boundaries and redefine what’s possible, not just British women but Ally- son Felix (USA) and Shelly-Ann [Fraser-Pryce (JAM)]. “But we’ve got so many British women sprint- ers coming up, so we know the future is bright. Hopefully, we’ll see far more British women sprinters on the podium in the future,” she said. Soon after winning the title, the Briton ded- icated her victory to long time coach John Blackie. She was aiming for more medals with the coach. “I’ve known him since I was eight years old. I didn’t see what he saw but he’s always believed in me and been careful with my progression, to advance me when I needed to be advanced and to hold me back so I could get stronger. So this is dedicated to his persistence, intelligence and wisdom. “We’ve still got things to work on. I’m still get- FAWAD HUSSAIN ting stronger and more experienced physically meet has been great. My coach and strength coach THE PENINSULA and mentally. So hopefully there’s a lot more to has seen it coming in practice. I think they saw come. It should be an exciting journey,” said Asher what I couldn’t see. So now I just tell myself to Smith. believe in myself always. ina Asher-Smith will not take time While the British athlete outclassed her oppo- “I train by myself in the mid-West. It’s just me out after her hectic campaign at the nents in the final, Team USA’s Brittany Brown ( and my coaches. But that doesn’t matter as long IAAF World Athletics Champion- 22.22) and Switzerland’s Mujinga Kambundji you believe in yourself,” said Brown. Bronze- It feels good because as ships Doha 2019 as Britain’s (22.51) were also impressive on Wednesday night winning Kambundji said it will be amazing to go We’ve still got things to women in sport we always history-making sprinter has already to seal podium finish. home with a world championships medal. work on. I’m still getting try and push boundaries Dshifted her focus to next year’s Olympic Games Brown, who had to do ‘odd jobs’ to manage “When I was younger I never thought that I stronger and more ex- in Tokyo. her education and training, was ecstatic with her would be able to get a medal on the global stage. and redefine what’s possi- Asher-Smith on Wednesday night became silver medal. When I made my first global final that was perienced physically and ble, not just British wom- the first British female athlete to win a world “I moved from California to Iowa to go to col- unbelievable for me. And when I saw it was pos- mentally. So hopefully en but Allyson Felix and sprint title after storming to the women’s 200m lege and had to work all sorts of odd jobs. I was sible to get a medal here I was so happy,” the Swiss there’s a lot more to come. gold at the Khalifa International Stadium. She a care giver, I worked with people who have said. Shelly-Ann (Fraser-Pryce). clocked 21.88 to set a new national record as well. dementia and Alzheimer’s, I worked as a wait- “I did a good race. I was so often fourth and It should be an exciting Asher-Smith journey.” Pics: Abdul Basit/The Peninsula The 23-year-old, who also won a silver medal ress. So I grinded. fifth, or ninth. But sometimes it works and today in women’s 100m in Doha, said she has her sights “To come here and PR twice this week at this was good day, so I am very happy,” she added. Asher-Smith

Armstrong Vas The Peninsula

Fajdek tells AAF World Championships gold medal winner in the hammer throw Pawel Fajdek is keen to edu- cate the younger generation of athletes the importance of ‘clean performance’ having paid the Iprice of doping during his career. Fajdek, who won a record fourth successive gold at youngsters: the World Championships, regrets a phase of his sport- ing career which saw him been banned for drugs. “It’s (drugs) very far from me. I know I did wrong, Poland’s Pawel Fajdek competes in the but now it’s past” said the Pole. Men’s Hammer Throw final at the 2019 “There are no scientific proofs that doping affects IAAFathletes Athletics long-term,” World Championships added Fajdek “I at was 20-year-old, Stay away thecomparing Khalifa International to 27 I am today.stadium It inwas Doha a really bad period of my life,” added Fajdek, while reflecting on that phase of his life which saw him on the sidelines for two years on account of the ban from 2014 to 2016. Fajdek said he has come clean on the drugs now and is actively involved in educating the younger athletes from drugs! the importance of ‘clean performance’ “I worked so hard with a new coach and new methods. Nowadays I have many-many visits of anti-doping officials during the year. I do many things in my federation to explain for the younger generation the importance of clean per- formances,” he said. On Wednesday at the Khalifa Stadium, Quentin Bigot of France finished second behind Fajdek followed by Bence Halasz of Hungary. Fajdek was delighted to pick up the gold medal in Doha. “It’s a nice day to be a world champion. I’ve done it four times now and made history, and that means a lot. I worked so hard with I had a really big injury. I was training since March so it Fajdek, who won a new coach and new is impressive win for me, and maybe for everyone.” a record fourth methods. Nowadays I successive gold have many-many visits at the World of anti-doping officials Championships, during the year. I do regrets a phase of many things in my fed- his sporting career eration to explain for which saw him been the younger generation banned for drugs. the importance of clean performances.” Pawel Fajdek 06 SPORT FRIDAY 4 OCTOBER 2019

September 27 - October 6 Blossoming Japan seek consistency against Samoa

REUTERS TOYOTA CITY standard, especially after the heartbreak at the end of the match, it’s crucial we victory over pool minnows Russia fol- massive support to what they’re trying of 2015 when the Brave Blossoms have a strong bench,” Joseph told lowed by a dismal 34-0 defeat to to do and obviously last weekend you became the only team in World Cup reporters yesterday. Scotland. saw what it means for them,” he said. Japan’s stunning 19-12 victory over history to win three pool matches but “, who had a very good The Pacific islanders have not been “They’ve got some world-class Ireland last weekend set them on course not advance to the quarter-finals. game against Ireland, played the whole helped by four yellow cards so far in the players in their squad and that doesn’t for top spot in their Coach has made three 80 minutes. We like him coming on, competition, and coach Steve Jackson happen overnight.” Pool A but that hard-earned advantage changes to his starting line-up, including another very good experienced player. joked he might have to cosy up Samoa have made six changes to will be largely undone if they do not see the return of squad captain Michael So there’s that balance.” tomorrow to referee, Jaco Peyper. their staring XV from the team that suc- off Samoa at the City of Leitch, who replaces Joseph believes there will be plenty “We’re going to take him out for cumbed so meekly to the Scots, with tomorrow. on the side of the scrum as the latter of fire in the Samoan bellies as they fight dinner and then go to have a drink,” hooker Seilala Lam joining brother, and Expectations have been raised sig- switches to number eight for the injured to stay in the tournament. Jackson said. “Our captain will be captain, Jack, in the run-on side. nificantly in the host nation since their Amanaki Mafi. “They’ll be hurting, they’ve had talking more to the referee but it’s about Loose-head prop Jordan Lay will Irish success, not just because of the Hooker Shota Horie, man of the some tough times but they are the sorts what we can do possibly in the game.” also start, with his brother, tight-head result but also the accomplished way match against Ireland, drops to the of things that usually bring the team Jackson added that the investment prop James, among the replacements. the side disposed of a team who entered bench and is replaced by Atsushi Sakate, tight together, so we’re expecting a made by Japanese rugby in their Lock Piula Faasalele, scrum-half the tournament ranked as number one while Wimpie van der Walt takes over really physical and tough game.” national team should be a blueprint for Dwayne Polataivao, fly-half Ulupano in the world. from Luke Thompson at lock. Samoa’s stuttering start to their other nations, such as Samoa, to follow. Seuteni and wing Ah See Tuala are the But with the euphoria comes an “We’re finding that test matches are World Cup has been largely self- “They’ve selected great coaches to others to have been drafted into the extra dose of pressure to maintain that very tight and there is so much pressure inflicted with an unconvincing 34-9 run their national team and they’ve had team. Ireland rebound from Japan England get ready for do-or-die Pumas in loss by beating Russia 35-0 race to RWC quarters

AP AP TOKYO

Ireland rebounded from its Argentina doesn’t have a choice. Beat England tomorrow, or it makes jolting loss to Japan by defeating its earliest exit from a Rugby World Cup in 16 years. winless Russia only 35-0 in a This was always going to be a crunch match in Pool C: Three humdrum Rugby World Cup Tier One sides can’t fit into two quarter-final slots. match yesteday. The stakes deepened for the Pumas after losing to France 23-21 The Irish made 11 changes for on the opening weekend. France still has to play England, too, but the pool match five days after the having already got past Argentina, the French may not need _ yet Japan result, and they still looked _ to beat England to advance. well oiled in going 14-0 up in “This is our World Cup final,” Pumas coach says. even time. “That’s how important it is for us. It’s a really good opportunity to Japan and Samoa previously get into the history books of Argentine rugby.” beat Russia by running the Bears England can make history in Tokyo, too. A win qualifies it for off their feet _ their wings shared the quarterfinals after embarrassingly missing out in 2015 in its seven tries _ but Ireland pre- home tournament. ferred the direct route, to take This isn’t a World Cup final to England because Eddie Jones’ on the Bears up front, and it squad came to Japan to play in the real one. It has every reason to wasn’t pretty or effective. be confident tomorrow. The Russians would have England has beaten up Argentina for the past decade, winning thought their dreams came true nine straight tests. The English won their only previous two World as Ireland lowered its sights to Cup matchups, although both had to be toughed out. England pre- play the Bears’ game, a tight, set- vailed 24-18 in 1995 in Durban, and needed a Ben Youngs converted piece affair. There were 39 set- try in the 67th minute to win 13-9 in 2011 at Dunedin. pieces, and while Ireland made England’s confidence is high after winning its opening two pool 11 clean breaks to Russia’s one, matches against Tonga and the United States, scoring 80 points and the Russians put up an effective Russia’s centre Vladimir Ostroushko (center) and team-mates applaud as Ireland’s players walk off conceding 10. And it has had two extra days of preparation for its wall with a tournament-high 182 the pitch after the 2019 Rugby World Cup, Pool A, match between Ireland and Russia at the Kobe first Tier One opponent. tackles. Ireland was made to Misaki Stadium in Kobe yesterday. And for the first time in ages, coach Jones was excited to have grind for every meter. a fully fit squad of 31 to choose from. He reverted to the lineup which It took until Russia received dispatched Tonga with only one change: George Kruis was in the its first yellow card for Ireland Jones said. “The sign of a good O’Mahony chased an expert Sychev with a helpful shove from second row with Maro Itoje, and has dropped to to score its third try just before team is attitude in your defense, grubber from Jonathan Sexton prop John Ryan. the reserves. halftime, and then not until Rus- and our players stood up today. to score between the posts. With a 21-0 lead and three The reserves also feature prop Mako Vunipola and winger Jack sia’s second yellow card for We came and we knocked the However, Kirill Golonotskiy, conversions, Sexton’s first match Nowell. Vunipola tore his hamstring from the bone in May, and tore Ireland to earn the fourth bonus- Irish boys back. We played for Russia’s only try-scorer in this as captain of Ireland was ended the scar tissue after 17 minutes against Ireland in August. Nowell point try. 60 minutes without conceding Rugby World Cup, slammed his at halftime to perhaps save the has been nursing an ankle ligament problem since June. After two tries in the first 12 a try and, for the supporter who left leg into a post as he tackled star flyhalf for Samoa in nine “It’s a credit to our strength and conditioning staff and medical minutes, Ireland could place only doesn’t appreciate rugby, that’s O’Mahony and was carried off. days in Fukuoka. staff what a great condition we’re in,” Jones enthused. two tries in the next 50. A late quite an achievement for us. I’m Ireland looked good at 14-0, For the Russians, no sooner The Pumas are also in good shape. They made only one change fifth try from a breakout in the absolutely delighted.” just as it was when it led Japan was Fedotko back on the field, to the starting lineup, recalling No. 8 Javier Ortega Desio, who played Irish half made the scoreline Ireland scored after just 90 12-3, but the match meandered than replacement lock Andrey against France, for Tomas Lezana from the win over Tonga last Sat- flatter the victors. seconds from a set move off a because of injuries _ No. 8 Jordi Ostrikov was sin-binned for a urday. Hooker Julian Montoya and flyhalf Benjamin Urdapilleta “There were 65 handling ruck in midfield. Scrumhalf Luke Murphy limped off _ and Ire- dangerous clearout, and they have been retained after replacing veterans Agustin Creevy and errors here in the previous two McGrath and flanker Peter land’s insistence on trying to flex were back to 14. Moments later, Nicolas Sanchez. Sanchez, who was in the reserves against Tonga, matches, and maybe we tried to O’Mahony fed fullback Rob its muscle in ruck after ruck. a Jack Carty chip was grabbed has missed out on the matchday 23. The inexperienced Lucas Mensa make 65 ourselves,” Ireland Kearney into a huge hole. The Russians were only too by Keith Earls, who fed fellow is the cover. Record caps holder Creevy is in the reserves, though. coach Joe Schmidt said. Kearney, who passed concussion happy to show off their muscles, wing Andrew Conway to take to “They’re a pretty good team if they can get Creevy to come off It was debatable who was tests after the Japan game and too. the posts. Then it was back to the bench,” Jones says. happier: Russia didn’t score, but still has a dark welt under his left And it was effective until stalemate until four minutes The England coach is usually quick with hyperbole, but has been lost its last match to Ireland eye, weaved 40 meters to the Russia lock Bogdan Fedotko was from time, when a sweeping paying tribute this week and left the banter to Creevy, who knows 62-12 at the 2011 World Cup. tryline. sin-binned for persistent profes- breakout finished with a Garry England and its game well from two seasons in the Premiership. “It’s a big day for Russian The Irish were then quick to sional fouls. Ireland used the Ringrose try and, too late, Ireland Creevy reportedly said this pool game “is going to be like a war,” rugby and we came through with pounce on dropped Russian ball. man advantage to work flanker discovered the Russian backs and described England as structured and boring, meaning he knows five stars,” Russia coach Lyn After a couple of rucks, Rhys Ruddock over Anton were no match for theirs. what’s coming: “They are Anglo-Saxon: No risks, very tidy.”

Fiji’s scores their seventh try against Fiji boost RWC chances with win over Georgia Georgia at World Cup, Pool D, match against Georgia at AP than Fiji. As the rain poured down at . With Fiji’s forwards as Hanazono Rugby Stadium, Hanazono Rugby Stadium on the outskirts slick as the backs, Georgia was simply Osaka, Japan, yesterday. of Osaka, Fiji failed initially to capitalize on overwhelmed. Fiji boosted its flagging Rugby World Cup a bright start. In the first half the scrums were evenly campaign with seven tries and scintillating But it was a sign of things to come when contested, with Georgia getting the upper attacking rugby in a 45-10 win against ’s spectacular first try put hand at times. Georgia yesterday. Fiji ahead midway through a rain-soaked Following a high Fiji tackle in the 15th The heavy rain did not affect Fiji’s first half where Georgia Soso Matiashvili minute of the clash, Matiashvili took the running game, which proved far too strong missed one penalty goal and slotted over penalty goal from about 30 meters out wide for a Georgia lineup hoping to seal third place another to make it 7-3 at the break. on the right. in Pool D with a win, which would have Then the tries came thick and fast _ one The flag went up, then down, and three ensured automatic qualification for the 2023 from Georgia’s veteran flanker Mamuka Gor- Georgia points were rubbed off the score- World Cup. godze, and then six from the flying Fijians board. Minutes later, a moment of typical Fiji Instead, Fiji has moved ahead of Georgia who thrilled the crowd with one-handed improvisation caught Georgia cold as and provisionally over Australia into second passes and some spectacular running. Radradra did well to stop flyhalf Ben Vola- place. Left wing Semi Radradra scored two tries, vola’s grubber kick going out. Fiji is still to face group leader Wales and with the other four coming from scrumhalf He showed good hands to feed the ball Georgia is up against two-time champion , right winger , quickly and accurately inside to the surging Australia, which has played one less game flanker and replacement lock Nayacalevu, who sprinted clear. FRIDAY 4 OCTOBER 2019 SPORT 07

September 27 - October 6

Basketball Tennis star looks for NBA Agarwal’s double century guides Osaka meets rebound in Andreescu in -mad India to 502 against South Africa China Open India AFP quarter-finals VISAKHAPATNAM Indian cricketer Mayank Agarwal walks back to the pavilion during the second day’s play of the first Test AFP match against South Africa in Visakhapatnam yesterday. AFP NEW DELHI Opening batsman Mayank Agarwal completed a double The NBA sets foot in India for century yesterday as India put US Open champion Bianca the first time this week as South Africa’s bowlers to the Andreescu paid Naomi Osaka basketball struggles in a sword in the first Test. the ultimate compliment on country where cricketers are Agarwal made 215 out of the eve of their first match, treated like gods and the India’s 502 for seven declared in saying the Japanese player’s ancient sport of kabaddi is a Visakhapatnam. game has similarities with that hot television property. South Africa then lost cheap of Serena Williams. Stars from the Sacra- before the second day Two of the most exciting mento Kings and Indiana ended, reaching 39 for three at talents in tennis clash today Pacers will play pre-season the close, with Ravichandran in the quarter-finals of the games in Mumbai today and Ashwin leading a spin rout of the China Open in Beijing. tomorrow to boost a des- top order. Ahead of what could be perate campaign to improve Ashwin bowled Aiden the start of a long rivalry, the the sport’s popularity in South Markram for five and Theunis 21-year-old Osaka called the Asia. de Bruyn caught behind for four. 19-year-old Canadian A professional league Nightwatchman Dane Piedt was Andreescu “an amazing called the United Basketball bowled middle stump by player” and said “I have to Alliance (UBA) started in 2015, Ravindra without scoring. learn from her”. but ended abruptly two years Opener Dean Elgar, on 27, The Japanese, on the later. and Temba Bavuma, on two, upswing after a slump fol- The NBA set up an were at the crease, with their lowing her triumph at the academy in New Delhi for 21 side needing another 264 to Australian Open at the start of players in 2017, one of seven avoid a follow-on. the year, smiled: “I’m older across the globe. It now has The 28-year-old Agarwal put SCOREBOARD Debutant spinner Senuran Muth- than her, very much so. I 23 students as part of the on a record 317-run opening usamy had Kohli caught and noticed that she seems to be INDIA, 1st innings (overnight 202-0) 7-66-0, Maharaj 55-6-189-2 (nb1), Piedt 19- expansion that brings the stand with opening partner Rohit bowled as his maiden Test very... just focused.” Kings and the Pacers to India. Sharma to set the tone for India’s M. Agarwal c Piedt b Elgar ...... 215 1-107-1, Muthusamy 15-1-63-1 (w1, nb1), El- . Andreescu, on a winning They will also be playing dominance. R. Sharma st de Kock b Maharaj ...... 176 gar 1-0-4-1 Jadeja, who made 30 , streak of 17 matches, returned in China, where the sports has “We are very happy with the C. Pujara b Philander ...... 6 SOUTH AFRICA, 1st innings and wicketkeeper-batsman the praise with gusto. a huge following, and Japan. way we have played in the first V. Kohli c & b Muthusamy ...... 20 D. Elgar not out ...... 27 Wriddhiman Saha, who hit 21, “I know she’s an But in India which has a innings but there is no room for A. Rahane c Bavuma b Maharaj ...... 15 A. Markram b Markram ...... 5 gave useful support in building aggressive player. She has population of 1.3 billion, there complacency,” Agarwal told R. Jadeja not out ...... 30 T. de Bruyn c Saha b Ashwin ...... 4 up the huge total. similar traits to Serena as are just 4,000 players regis- reporters. H. Vihari c Elgar b Maharaj ...... 10 D. Piedt b Jadeja ...... 0 Maharaj took three wickets well,” said the world number tered for official tournaments. “We are going to make sure W. Saha c Muthusamy b Piedt ...... 21 T. Bavuma not out ...... 2 from 55 overs of left-arm spin six. “Big serve, big ground- That is three times more than that since we have the upper R. Ashwin not out ...... 1 Extras (lb1) ...... 1 and said it was among the strokes. She moves pretty a decade ago, according to the hand we will keep coming back Extras (b4, lb1, nb2, w1) ...... 8 Total (3 wickets, 20 overs) ...... 39 “toughest” conditions he had well, too.” national federation keep putting the pressure on Total (7 wickets dec, 136 overs) ... 502 To bat: F. du Plessis, Q. de Kock, V. Philander, bowled in. Andreescu, whose ascent No Indian player has ever South Africa.” Did not bat: I. Sharma, M. Shami S. Muthusamy, K. Maharaj, K. Rabada “I think it was probably one has been so fast that she did taken part in an NBA game He added: “It was great Fall of wickets: 1-317 (Sharma), 2-324 (Pu- Fall of wickets: 1-14 (Markram), 2-31 (de of the toughest surfaces I bowled not even feature at the China and former players and sports alongside him (Sharma). on in terms of it being a lot Open a year ago, added: “She’s jara), 3-377 (Kohli), 4-431 (Rahane), 5-436 Bruyn), 3-34 (Piedt) experts believe it could be a It was good that we can get these slower and not biting as much,” doing incredible, especially at (Agarwal), 6-457 (Vihari), 7-494 (Saha) Bowling: Sharma 2-0-8-0, Shami 2-2-0-0, long time before any break- big partnerships for India early said Maharaj. “Obviously you get such a young age as well. It’s through is made. on. It’s nice obviously... getting a Bowling: Philander 22-4-68-1, Rabada 24- Ashwin 8-4-9-2, Jadeja 8-1-21-1 slow turn, but I just felt the ball nice to play another player Cricket and kabaddi -- a 300-run partnership feels great.” didn’t really kick off the wicket. that’s close to my age. We’re rough and tumble contact The right-hand batsman South African players. on 115, smashed the ball to all “But the cracks have been kind of like the next gener- sport like tag -- built their tel- smashed six sixes and 23 fours He said that “long-distance parts of the ground. opening up because of the heat ation. I’m really excited.” evision riches from years of in a 371-ball knock, using the running” and batting for long India then suffered two quick around, so there is a little of bit Andreescu, playing her grassroots work while bas- reverse sweep to good effect as hours in the nets during practice blows. Cheteshwar Pujara went of assistance now opposed to first tournament since ketball is regarded as an he made his mark in just his fifth was the reason behind his mar- for six and skipper Virat Kohli when we first started off.” stunning Williams in the final “elitist” sport trying to impose Test. athon knock. for 20. The pitch had started turning at Flushing Meadows last itself with star appeal, Agarwal eventually fell to Sharma fell for 176, Paceman Vernon Philander as India sent in Ashwin and month, thrashed American according to marketing and part-time spinner Elgar before off Keshav Maharaj before lunch. bowled Pujara on the first Jadeja to make quickfire strikes qualifier Jennifer Brady. The branding specialist Harish leaving to handshakes from Sharma, who resumed the day delivery of the second session. on the South African batsmen. teenager started with intent, Bijoor. breaking Brady’s first service “Basketball remains Kirsten ideal game on the way to a brutal niche,” he said. “If there are The Hundred Teams 6-1, 6-3 win in 68 minutes. 60 students in a class there Birmingham Phoenix candidate to The two-time Grand Slam are possibly two who play London Spirit champion said she was “angry basketball,” he said. Manchester Originals coach England, relaxed” after a dominant 6-4, “The reinvention of bas- Northern Superchargers 6-0, win over unseeded ketball from the bottom up is Oval Invincibles says Atherton American Alison Riske. important, not top-down. Southern Brave “You cannot have an elitist Trent Rockets REUTERS WTA/ATP China Open tag to basketball. You should Welsh Fire LONDON Results have a popular tag.” Women - 3rd round Ashok Sharma, a former Former South Africa batsman Bianca Andreescu (CAN commissioner for world gov- Gary Kirsten would be the x5) bt Jennifer Brady (USA) erning body FIBA, praised the perfect candidate to replace 6-1, 6-3 NBA for bringing their stars to Trevor Bayliss as England coach Naomi Osaka (JPN x4) bt help the sport’s profile in and the country’s cricket board Alison Riske (USA) 6-4, 6-0 India. should not hesitate to make Darya Kasatkina (RUS) bt But he said the interna- another overseas appointment, Ekaterina Alexandrova (RUS) tional and Indian federations former captain Michael 6-4, 6-3 had to work together “to Atherton said. Caroline Wozniacki (DEN nurture talent” and create British media reported that x16) bt Katerina Siniakova stars of their own. former India coach Kirsten has (CZE) 7-5, 6-4 “Something is amiss and emerged as the leading con- Men-2nd round it’s the players who are suf- tender to take over from Aus- Alexander Zverev (GER fering. Basketball making a Northern Superchargers rope in tralia’s Bayliss, who departed x2) bt Felix Auger Aliassime mark as a popular sport in after the Ashes series against (CAN) 6-3, 6-1 India is a long way off,” said Stokes as The Hundred launched Australia. John Isner (USA) bt Dan Sharma. “It’s dangerous to fall into Evans (GBR) 7-6 (7/3), 7-5 A former Indian national AFP Northern Superchargers while Root, who plays the trap of thinking a foreign Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE player said on condition of LONDON county cricket in Leeds for Yorkshire, was picked accent makes you a better can- x3) bt Nikoloz Basilashvili anonymity: “Sadly non-sports up by Nottingham-based Trent Rockets. didate, but no English coach has (GEO) 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 guys are running the sport in Ben Stokes (pictured above) was picked ahead of Jofra Archer will spearhead the Southern Brave such an impressive CV as Sam Querrey (USA) bt India. They are very unpro- England Test captain to play for the Leeds- bowling attack, Jos Buttler will play for Manchester Kirsten’s,” Atherton wrote in Diego Schwartzman (ARG) 7-6 fessional and have only made based Northern Superchargers franchise as The Originals, Chris Woakes represents Birmingham The Times newspaper. (7/2), 6-7 (6/8), 6-3 basketball rot.” Hundred was officially launched yesterday. Phoenix and Sam Curran joins brother Tom at Oval “Nationality is immaterial; Japan Open Results: NBA academy technical The eight franchises were named and the first Invincibles. Each team were also able to pick up skills as communicators, man- Men’s Singles director Scott Flemming batch of players allocated, including England’s cen- two “icon” players from their local area, as well as managers and expertise in tech- Round Of 16 believes the sport is slowly trally-contracted Test contingent. the first two representatives of their women’s side. nique are all-important... they John Millman, Australia, finding space to grow in India. The 100-ball competition, starting in 2020, is World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan will (coaches) are facilitators, def. Lloyd Harris, South Africa, “It is cricket mania here a new tournament consisting of city-based fran- play for the Lord’s franchise, London Spirit, with teachers and enablers, trying to 6-3, 6-2. in India but I feel sports like chise sides, breaking away from England’s tradi- England women’s captain Heather Knight also help to improve the lives and David Goffin (3), Belgium, basketball are coming up,” the tional county system. Teams will bat for 100 balls heading to the home of cricket. careers of players,” he said. def. Denis Shapovalov, former Indian team coach each with overs, normally consisting of six deliv- Speaking about his new assignment Root said: “He (Kirsten) would make Canada, 7-6 (5), 7-6 (2). said. “Since I came in 2012 as eries, lasting for 10 balls with bowlers either “The best players in the world are coming here to a fine choice. There are those Chung Hyeon, South a national coach I have really bowling five or 10 balls consecutively. compete and we’re going to get the chance to test who will frown upon another Korea, def. Marin Cilic (6), seen basketball grow.” Stokes, who starred at the World Cup and in ourselves against them once again. There has never overseas appointment... I’m not Croatia, 6-4, 3-6, 6-1 the Ashes, will play for the Headingley side been a more exciting time for cricket.” of that number.” FRIDAY 4 OCTOBER 2019 SPORT 08

It’s nice to play another player Bianca Andreescu TODAY’S FIXTURE that’s close to my age. compliments Naomi SOUTH AFRICA VS ITALY (Pool B) 12:45 Qatar Time We’re kind of like the next Osaka on the eve of TOMORROW AUSTRALIA VS URUGUAY (Pool D) 13:15 generation. I’m really their first match. excited. ENGLAND VS ARGENTINA (Pool C) 10:45 JAPAN VS SAMOA (Pool A) 13:15

September 27 - October 6

Grant Holloway of the US (second right) crossing the finish line to win the men’s 110 metres hurdles final on Wednesday.

Holloway’s decision to give up on NFL dream pays off

FAWADD HUSSAINHUSSH AIAIN everybody has to compete at the end of October,” THE PPENINSULAENNINSULA he said. Russia’s Sergey Shubenkov, who clinched a GrantGrant HollowayHollowway was a plaplayerye in College silver medal, said he was happy with his feat after FootballFFootball but his thirst to becomeb an a difficult year. OlympicOlOlymymmpicp star wass always there. “This year has been difficult for me. A real I’ve dreamed of carrying ThenT camecamme a time, when Holloway challenge. Everybody remember my fall in Rabat the American flag. It’s my had to lleaveeeave one of his passions to when McLeod fell over me. At first it was nothing first ever time holding the pickk the other oneon - and he serious, but then it took a lot of time and effort American flag. When I was preferredpre to me to recover and here after the final the first pursuepur his thing that emerged to my head was that it is finally young, I always missed obsessionobseo with over. out the junior team by tracktr and “I looked around and said I was second. Of one spot. If you wanna do field, and course I was competing for the gold like every something you take your becomebbebecbecoecoommee anan Olympian.Olympiann. athlete does but I am really happy with the TheThhee AmericanAAmmemermerican chochooseoose the hurdles and made outcome,” he said. heart out until you achieve significantsigngnniificcanta t progress,pprrogress, becomingbecoming a US CollegiateC Frenchman Pascal Martinot-Lagrad hoped it: Grant Holloway champion,chaaammppiioon, beforebeb fore dethroningdeethroning Jamaica’sJamaic Omar the bronze medal will help him in Olympics. McLeodMcLeMcLLeeodo toto winwwin 110m110mm hurdleshurdles gold at the IAAF “I will go to the Olympics with more confi- WorldWorlorlddA AtAthleticshlehletetiics ChamChampionshipsmpionships 2019. dence, although it will be different. “My“M“ parentsparearents askedasked me ‘do you wantwan to be an “In France we have an Olympic medal, Guy NFLNFL playerplayer oror an Olympian?’Olymmpian?’ian?’ My heart heart wasw to be Drut in 1976 and Ladji Doucoure, a world Spain’s Ortega ann OOlympian,”lympmpian,” recalledrecalleled Holloway,HolloHolloway, whowhhoh champion in 2005. We have to follow the way, clclocclockedkedd 13.1013.10 to winw thet titletitlee onon we areare proudproud to be part of this French team. There awarded bronze WednesdayWWednesesday ninight.ght. isi a FrenchFrench schoolschool inin thetht e hurdles,huh rdles, becausebe it is THE PENINSULA “I wantedwanted to do bbothoth whenwhewheen I gotggo to greatgreagre tti in FraFFrancencen more thanthannan anyanyyot otherother event.event. the collegecollollegee level.level. MyMy coachcoacha h toldto d me youyoouo It is is difficultdifficult to bebeea a FrenchFrenchc champion.champhham ion. wannawwanna be the bestbest onon thethhee tracktratr ckckt thenthenen stickstiici k I’m’mm notnoott theththe FrenchFrenFreFrF nchc champion.c hamphaampion. I hopehopepe Spanish hurdler Orlando Ortega was withw me and I promiseproommisse youyyou by theh nextnexxt wewe willwillll bebe goodgoodd at the the Olympics Olympympyymm icsici awarded a bronze medal in the men’s OlympicsOlympicics you are goinggooinng ttooob bbe reaready.e dy.y. HeHei iisssa a manmaann nextextexextxt year,”yeayeeaar,”rr, heese said.said.aididd.d 110m following an appeal lodged by team ofo hish is wordw ordo and mee andandd coachcoachachc MikeMMikikkeeHo HollowayHHoollowowowaya Spain. The team has claimed that their make an awesomeawesomee team.teeamamm. athlete was obstructed during Wednes- “Football“FooFootbaltb l is ververyry uununforgivingnforgrgivivinivinng ono yyoyouyourur bobody.ody.y day’s final by Jamaican athlete Omar TheThT quesquestiontiont is do yyououu wwannaanannaannnaa wwalwalkalalkkin inin yoyouyourouurr30 30330s0s McLeod. or you wanna be in a wheelchairwheheelelchchhairaia r ataty youryourouurr 35.35355. I taketaakek Ortega was impeded by a tumbling my chances and chooseose thethe hurdles,”huurdlerdleles,”s”, hehe said.said.aidaiid McLeod and eventually finished the race The decision paid ofofffffa aas huhurhurdlesururdlesess gagavggaveaavehe hihhimmthm thtthehe in the fourth position with a time of 13.30 Grant Holloway of gold medal in Doha. secs. the US crossing the “I’ve dreamed of carryingcarcac ryiryinryyiinng thttheheeAm AmericanAmmericericcanan f flag.lag.ag.ag He was third at the time of the finish line to win the It’s my first ever timee hoholdhholdingolddinginngng thethhee AmAmeAmerAmericanmericaicccaanan flaflfflag.l g.g. incident but his progress was clearly men’s 110 metres When I was young, I alwaysalwaa waysy missedmisseississeed outouuttth thethhe juniorjjuuniornioi affected, making it impossible for him to hurdles final of the team by one spot. If you wannawanwaannnanada dod o somethingsosomethmetheethinginingg maintain the medal position. IAAF World Athletics you take your heart ouoututut untiuntuuntilntintt l youyyou acachievehieve it,”itt,”” ssaidaidiidd The Jury of Appeal reconsidered Championships the 21-year-old beforeeforer addingaddindininingthg ththathattb b becomingecomecoeccocomomingingng a the case and in view of the at the Khalifa world champion waswass alwaysalwaylwayays hishiis goal.gog al.alal obstruction and accepted the International “I think it’s alwayswaaysaya beebebeeneen a goalgogoaggoal.oalal..Wh WhWWhenhenenwn w wee appeal and directed that Stadium in Doha, on started it was on thethe backbbaackkko ofoffmy myy coach’scoacocoaach’sh’h’ mindminmim nd Ortega also be awarded a Wednesday. that I would makee it toto OctoOOctober.ctoober.beber.r.r. BloBloodoodod s sweatweweataatt bronze medal. PICTURE: ABDUL BASIT and tears. It’s beenen a longlongono g rideididede butut thisthihis / THE PENINSULA is what you workk forr inn aaWo WorldsWoWorldsrrldldldsdss year. You gottaa goo ttoo DDoDoha,oha,a

My parents asked me ‘do you want to be GrantGranGraGraannt an NFL player or an Olympian?’. My heart HollHolHollowayo owaowayowayayy off thethhe USUS celecelcelebratesbbrabratratateses aafterfterfteer winwinnwwinningnnninginng was to be an Olympian: Holloway goldgog d mmedmedal.eddal.