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Saturday 5 October 2019

September 27 - October 6 Barshim wows home crowd with world title FAWAD HUSSAIN THE PENINSULA

It was champion stuff from as he bounced back brilliantly to win first gold medal for Qatar with a world leading leap of 2.37m, turning the Khalifa International Stadium into the sea of Qatari flags and sending the crowd into raptures. Yesterday, it looked completely a different day at the IAAF Championships 2019 as a packed house of 48000 seats created an electrifying atmosphere, supporting their superstar every time he went for a leap. By retaining the title, Barshim, who also clinched gold medal at the 2017 World Championships, became only the second high jumper in the world to win two world titles. Cuban great was the first high jumper to achieve the feat. The two-time Olympic medalist yesterday gave fans all the excitement – showed them flawless leaps, made them nervous before giving them the euphoria. The 28-year-old, who suffered from an ankle injury and was barely seen in action in the last 18 months before the world cham- pionships, enjoyed a comfortable start, jumping to 2.19m, 2.24m, 2.27m and 2.30 without knocking the bar. After his smooth run in his first four marks, the home favourite failed twice in the 2.33m barrier, with Belarusian Maksim Nedasekau, Authorised Neutral Athletes and Ilya Ivanyuk all clearing the height. Then came the moment of truth for the Qatari hero, and he came out of it with flying colours. Qatar’s Mutaz Essa Barshim celebrates after winning the men’s He looked emotional but focused and jumped well final during the 2019 IAAF Athletics World Championships at the Khalifa clear of 2.33 to stay in contention. International Stadium in Doha, yesterday. Barshim defended his world title after With that jump, Barshim looked a champion already clearing a height of 2.37m. PICTURES: ABDUL BASIT / THE PENINSULA, REUTERS as he cleared 2.35m easily before Akimenko raised the bar to 2.37m. While, Akimenko failed to clear the height, Barshim did that in the first attempt to seal the crown screaming “I am Mutaz Barshim, I am the world champion”. “For me, it was just a dream. At home, it was just amazing. Everybody was there – my family, friends and the Amir himself. I was not 100 percent ready but when I came there and see all those people cheering for me, even if I was dying, if they take me from the wheelchair, or ambulance, I would do everything I can,” the champion high jumper said after the final. “I needed to give it some action. If I jumped the 2.33 easy, it is boring and everyone just jumps, jumps, jumps. My coach was sometimes toughing his hearts but sometimes you need to get it the hard way. I am never afraid but Russia, they always have good high jumpers. So it was good to jump against those good high jumpers. I give respect to everyone out there,” Barshim said. Akimenko, who had first time clearances up to 2.35m, claimed the silver medal while Ivanyuk, who matched the 2.35m of his Russian counterpart but needed three to get over at 2.33m, took the bronze. “I must be happy for the bronze (silver) as this is my first major senior championships. The personal record is great but I know I could have jumped the 237 in the second attempt,” said Akimenko. MEN'S HIGH JUMP FINAL It is a great motivation for the Olympic year and I am going to jump as much as I can also indoors,” he POS ATHLETE COUNTRY MARK added. Gold Mutaz Essa Barshim QAT 2.37 WL Ivanyuk said: “We had a really fantastic compe- tition today. Certainly, when we knew years ago, that Silver Mikhail Akimenko ANA 2.35 PB these championships are going to be held in Doha, we Bronze Ilya Ivanyuk ANA 2.35 PB understood that Mutaz Barshim will be in greatest shape ever to fight for the gold. 4 Maksim Nedasekau BLR 2.33 Meanwhile, Italy’s Tamberi Gianmarco who com- 5 Luis Enrique Zayas CUB 2.30 PB peted in the final rated Barshim as best high jumper in the world. 6 AUS 2.30 SB “Barshim is no doubt the best high jumper in the 7 Michael Mason CAN 2.30 world. It’s a great achievement for Barshim, winning a gold medal in front of home fans,” said Gianmarco. 02 SPORT SATURDAY 5 OCTOBER 2019

September 27 - October 6

Spectators hold a Barshim’s gold creates banner picturing Qatar’s real buzz at Khalifa Mutaz Essa Barshim as International Stadium they watch the men’s

high jump FAWAD HUSSAIN THE PENINSULA final As Mutaz Essa Barshim competed in the final yesterday, it created an electrifying atmosphere at the packed Khalifa International Stadium (KIS) with home fans coming in groups and huge numbers to back their hero. It was an 8th day at the IAAF World Athletics Championships Doha 2018, and one could easily say the venue saw the biggest turnout of the 10-day showpiece event so far. Barshim’s men’s high jump final was scheduled to start at 8:15pm but fans could be seen storming towards the venue from 5pm. With the 48000-capacity venue already filled, thousands of enthu- siasts were also seen attempting entry inside the stadium and were unable to get their seats. Yesterday’s schedule at the KIS also included finals of discus throw, women’s 400m hurdles, 3,000m steeplechase, and men’s 400m. The highlight of the day, of course, was Barshim’s gold, but US athlete Dalilah Muhammad also thrilled the crowd by renewing her world record in the women’s 400m final, clocking a magical 52.16. World Champion, Qatar’s Mutaz Essa Barshim in action during the men’s high jump final during the 2019 IAAF Athletics World Championships at the Khalifa International stadium in Doha, yesterday. Barshim defended his world title with a 2.37m mark. PICTURES: ABDUL BASIT / THE PENINSULA, AGENCIES Gardiner brings cheers to Bahamas

ARMSTRONG VAS THE PENINSULA

Steven Gardiner gave something to cheer about for the Hurricane Dorian hit Bahamas as he won the men’s 400m at the IAAF World Champion- ships in empathic fashion at the Khalifa International Stadium yesterday. The 2017 silver medalist clocked 43.48 secs to win gold. Gardiner comes from Abaco town which saw the maximum destruction during last month’s natural calamity. Anthony Zambrano of Colombia claimed silver for his first world medal, leaving Fred Kerley of the United States to settle for bronze. Steven upped his pace through the second bend and striding away from to a Bahamas national record and the second fastest time in the world this year. Meanwhile in the men’s the 3,000m steeplechase Conseslus Kipruto of Kenya stormed to the gold winning the event in a photo finish. The winning time was 8 minutes 1.35 seconds, the fastest by anyone this season. was the fastest time this year and the second fastest winning Dalilah breaks her own world record to win gold time at a world championships. The 2016 Olympic and 2017 FAWAD HUSSAIN Dalilah Muhammad of the US poses next to the screen reading the will go for her personal best and world champion overhauled Ethi- THE PENINSULA new world record in the women’s 400m hurdles final at the 2019 that will be a record for the opian 18-year-old Lamecha Girma IAAF Athletics World Championships at the Khalifa International world. Muhammad’s per- on the final stretch to win by just Dalilah Muhammad vowed to stadium in Doha, yesterday. PICTURES: ABDUL BASIT / THE PENINSULA formance also earns her a one-hundredth of a second with the break our own world record in US$100,000 bonus as part of the Ethiopian having had to settle for the Doha, and the American lived world record programme sup- silver. up to her promise yesterday. ported by QNB and TDK. Soufiane El Bakkali got the bronze. She clocked a magical 52.16, She started the final well and The Moroccan was in contention at the taking 0.04 from her own mark was up quickest at led by an inch bell but couldn’t live with the finishing to win the women’s 400m over McLaughlin after the first speed of the front two. hurdles gold medal, leaving 100m. Meanwhile, dominated the spectators at the packed Khalifa McLaughlin tried to catch women’s discus throw with a 1-2. International Stadium thrilled. Dalilah but she was away by a Yaime Perez and Denia Caballero Sydney McLaughlin, as yard as they came through the won the first two places leaving expected gave tough time to her second bend. Dalilah maintained Crotian Perez threw 69.17 at her fifth American team-mate and was her lead to world record for the attempt to snatch the lead from the second fastest with a time second time in three months. Caballero, whose best mark was of 52.23, with Jamaica’s Rushell “I just decided to go for it 68.44. Sandra Perkovic, the Olympic Clayton taking bronze with a from the start but I didn’t think champion, had to settle for bronze time of 53.74. it will be so fast. I did everything with 66.72 after fouling her last three “This means so much. It is again is fantastic,” said a coming at me around hurdle 29-year-old. Dalilah, who I could and at least US got one- throws. difficult to describe. I just jubilant Dalilah. nine, then I just gave everything marked 52.20 at the USATF two. I am still young and eve- Caballero lost her world title to wanted the world title so much “I just decided to go for it I’d got. It hasn’t really sunk but 2019 National Championship, ryday is a new experience for Perkovic in 2017, but yesterday Perez but to break the world record from the start and I felt Sydney it feels good,” said the said ahead of Doha Worlds she me,” said McLaughlin. beat them both. SATURDAY 5 OCTOBER 2019 SPORT 03

September 27 - October 6 Centuries for Elgar, De Kock Al Arabi rally for as SA fights back against India gutsy 3-1 victory AP over Al Khor VISAKHAPATNAM SCOREBOARD India (I innings) 502-7 dec Dean Elgar and Quinton de Kock South Africa (I innings) THE PENINSULA DOHA struck centuries to help South D Elgar c Pujara b Jadeja ...... 160 Africa avoid the threat of a A Markram b Markram ...... 5 follow-on and reach 385-8 at Al Arabi earned a dramatic come-from-behind 3-1 victory against stumps on Day 3 of the first Test T de Bruyn c Saha b Ashwin ...... 4 Al Khor in Week 6 of the 2019-20 QNB Stars League at the Al Khor against India on yesterday. D Piedt b Jadeja ...... 0 Stadium yesterday. Offspinner Ravichandran T Bavuma lbw b I Sharma ...... 18 Hamdi Harbaoui (78th-minute penalty and 90+5-minute penalty) Ashwin took his 27th five- F du Plessis c Pujara b Ashwin ...... 55 and Pierre Lasogga (90+8 minutes) scored for Al Arabi. haul in Tests to keep Q de Kock b Ashwin ...... 111 Ahmed Hassan scored for Al Khor in the 37th minute. India in control of the series Al Arabi, who were not in action last week as their game against S Muthusamy () ...... 12 opener, however, with South reigning champions Al Sadd (Qatar Derby) was deferred due to the Africa still trailing by 117 runs. V Philander b Ashwin ...... 0 latter’s AFC Champions League first-leg semifinal against Saudi After the Proteas resumed K Maharaj (batting) ...... 3 Arabia’s Al Hilal played in Doha on 1st October, moved to 13 points. in some trouble on 39-3, Elgar Extras (B8, LB4, NB5) ...... 17 Al Khor stood on four points. scored 160 off 287 balls for the Total (8 ) ...... 385 Al Khor thus suffered their fourth successive defeat, having lost opener’s 12th Test hundred Fall of wickets: 1-14, 2-31, 3-34, 4-63, to Al Ahli, Al Rayyan and Qatar SC also. before De Kock attacked India’s Al Arabi were the dominant side in the first half and, under- 5-178, 6-342, 7-370, 8-376 spinner to make 111 off 163 standably, created more chances though they lacked teeth enough deliveries. Bowling: Sharma 14-2-44-1 (nb1), Shami to give them the lead. Yousef Abdulrazaq headed straight to Al Arabi They put on 164 runs for the 15-3-40-0 (nb1), Ashwin 41-11-128-5, Jade- goalkeeper Gregory Gomis and then Pierre Lasogga could not connect sixth wicket, allowing South South Africa’s Quinton de Kock raises his bat after scoring 100 runs ja 37-4-116-2 (nb1), Vihari 9-1-38-0 (nb2), Yousef’s pass. Africa to ease past the follow- during the third day’s play of the first Test match between India Sharma 2-1-7-0 Al Khor slowly, but steadily made their way into the game, with on mark. and South Africa in Visakhapatnam yesterday. Tiago Bezerra and Ahmed Hammoudan leading their charge. At stumps, Senuran Muth- Al Khor drew first blood when Ahmed Hassan volleyed in first usamy (12 ) and Keshav partnership of 115 runs with De Kock helped South Africa “I am elated to be back,” time an angular cross from the left by Ibrahim Amada, leaving Gomis Maharaj (3 not out) were in the Elgar that resurrected the cross 350 in the next over but Ashwin said. with no chance to make a save. middle. Proteas’ innings. fell to Ashwin, pushing the ball “It was tough for me to sit Al Khor were more in the game in the second half and The Responding to India’s first That brought Elgar and De onto the stumps off his pads. out. I went and played as much Knights almost doubled their lead just past the hour mark, but innings of 502-7 declared, South Kock together, the latter taking Ashwin made it a quick as possible. Played in Amada’s shot was first blocked by Gomis and then cleared by Musab Africa - which, at one stage, was charge of the innings with a double blow as he bowled county cricket and in T20 club Keder. reeling on 34-3 - dominated the counterattacking knock to reach Vernon Philander for a 10-ball cricket so I could bowl as much Al Arabi too made desperate attempts for an equaliser. After third day of the test and lost only his fifth Test century off 149 duck, and had figures of 5-128 as possible. It helped me bounce Aron Gunnarsson shot over from four yards out off a corner kick, two wickets in the first two deliveries. from 41 overs. back.” The Dream Team earned a penalty after Al Khor defender Khaled sessions. The breakthrough finally It was a strong return for a India’s big first-innings Radwan was adjudged to have handled the ball off a corner kick. Ishant Sharma trapped came in the 100th over when player who has been out since score was established on an Harbaoui calmly converted from the spot. Temba Bavuma (18) lbw before Elgar, who hit 18 fours and four December because of injury and opening stand of 317 runs The match saw dramatic scenes towards the end, with both lunch, while Faf du Plessis fell sixes, holed out to deep mid- then having dropped behind between Mayank Agarwal (215) teams seeking a headway, and the VAR was used on more occa- for 55 in the afternoon to end a wicket off Ravindra Jadeja (2-116). others in terms of selection. and Rohit Sharma (176). sions than one. Al Khor were awarded a penalty when Morteza Pouraliganji fouled Amada. And Tiago hit the resultant spot kick against the right upright. Al Arabi soon earned a penalty after Robert Alexander ECB’s The brought down Harbaoui and the latter converted from the spot. Lasogga struck at the stroke of final whistle to seal a pulsating victory Hundred for Al Arabi. In another match, Al Shahania and Umm Salal were forced to under fire for share the spoils following a 1-1 draw in Week 6 of the 2019-20 QNB ‘junk food’ Stars League at the Al Arabi Stadium yesterday. Al Shanania got on the scoresheet in the 27th minute, thanks to sponsorship Ramin Rezaeian, and Umm Salal equalised in the 38th minute, courtesy of an Adil Rhaili goal. REUTERS LONDON Djokovic stuns The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has come under fire from health Open with advocacy groups who said their new domestic tour- nament The Hundred super fast tennis Pakistan’s Umar Akmal (right) plays a shot as Babar Azam (left) promotes junk food with its and Mohammad Nawaz look on during a practice session in Lahore sponsorship deal with KP AFP yesterday. World number one team Pakistan take on Sri Snacks. ATP WORLD TOUR TOKYO Lanka in the first of a three-match series in Lahore today. The 100-ball format RESULTS tournament was launched on World number one Novak Thursday and all eight city- Djokovic yesterday put on a Men’s Singles-Quarter-final Pakistan launch T20 World Cup based teams’ kits promi- stunning show of supremacy at Novak Djokovic (1), Serbia, def. nently feature logos of the the Japan Open with a 6-1, 6-2 Lucas Pouille (5), France, 6-1, 6-2. British-based brand’s win over Lucas Pouille of David Goffin (3), Belgium, def. preparation with series products, which are mainly France. Chung Hyeon, South Korea, 6-2, 6-2. maize, potato, and nut-based The Serb overwhelmed his AFP Pakistan have a world number one ranked snacks. opponent in the quarter-final WTA World Tour Results LAHORE Twenty20 batsman in Babar Azam, while the recall “Junk food brands’ spon- match, showering Pouille with Men’s Singles-Quarter-final of Ahmed Shehzad and Umar Akmal further boosts sorship of popular sporting a barrage of powerful, precision Karen Khachanov (4), Russia, def. World number one Twenty20 team Pakistan take their batting. events is just another way shots to deep, wide corners Fabio Fognini (6), Italy, 3-6, 6-3, 6-1. on an inexperienced Sri Lanka in the first of a Sri Lanka will miss their top players Kusal they make sure their mixed with delicate drop shots. Dominic Thiem (1), Austria, def. three-match series in Lahore today, starting their Perera, Angelo Mathews, , unhealthy products take “I am not a machine. But I Andy Murray, Britain, 6-2, 7-6 (3). preparation for next year’s World Cup in the and Niroshan Dickwella, who were centre stage in children’s did play like one today,” he said Stefanos Tsitsipas (3), Greece, def. shortest format. among ten players who refused to tour Pakistan minds,” Caroline Cerny of the after their 50-minute contest. John Isner, United States, 7-6 (3), Pakistan will also play three Twenty20 matches over security fears. But Shanaka, who was one of Obesity Health Alliance said. “This was one of the best 6-3. in Australia next month before hosting Bangladesh four players who came to Pakistan when Sri Lanka “We know that the matches I played this year. Alexander Zverev (GER x2) bt Sam and later travelling to Ireland and England, all played a single Tweny20 international in Lahore relentless exposure to junk Very, very pleased with the way Querrey (USA) 7-6 (7/3), 6-2 ahead of the Twenty20 Asia Cup. in 2017, put on a brave face. food marketing that children I feel and played on the court,” That gives them ideal preparation for the “I am happy to lead the team and we will do today are exposed to influ- said Djokovic. Women’s Singles-Quarter-final Twenty20 World Cup to be held in Australia in our best to put up a fight against our very strong ences their food choices and “I am looking forward to Ashleigh Barty (1), Australia, def. October and November next year. hosts,” said Shanaka. how much they eat.” another battle tomorrow, hope- Petra Kvitova (7), Czech Republic, Pakistan Sarfaraz Ahmed said the prep- Like in Karachi, where Sri Lanka lost the three- Tam Fry, the chairman fully I will be able to keep up 4-6, 6-4, 6-3. aration was good but he was keeping his eye on match one-day series 2-0 (with the first match of the National Obesity with this quality of tennis.” Kiki Bertens (8), Netherlands, def. the ball: Sri Lanka. rained off), stringent security will be in place for Forum, said the United In the semi-finals, Djokovic Elina Svitolina (3), Ukraine, 7-6 (6), “We will not take them lightly,” said Sarfaraz. the teams. Kingdom should follow the will face 2017 Japan Open 6-2. “A Twenty20 match can be won by one good per- TEAMS: PAKISTAN: Sarfaraz Ahmed (captain), example of the city of champion David Goffin of Caroline Wozniacki (16), Denmark, formance in batting and one in bowling, so we Fakhar Zaman, Ahmed Shehzad, Babar Azam, Haris Amsterdam that put an end Belgium, who also comfortably def. Daria Kasatkina, Russia, 6-3, need to work hard to win the series.” Sohail, Umar Akmal, Iftikhar Ahmed, Asif Ali, Imad to sports sponsorship by defeated Chung Hyeon of South 7-6 (5). The remaining matches will be played on Wasim, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Amir, similar companies, which Korea 6-2, 6-2. Naomi Osaka (JPN x4) bt Bianca Monday and Wednesday, also in Lahore. Mohammad Hasnain, Mohammad Nawaz, Shadab eventually led to a fall in Djokovic’s latest victory Andreescu (CAN x5) 5-7, 6-3, 6-4 Pakistan enjoy a superior record against Sri Khan, , Wahab Riaz obesity levels. provided further evidence of his Lanka, having beaten them in eight of the 13 SRI LANKA: Dasun Shanaka (captain), “The ECB could have swift recovery from a left matches they have played against each other to Danushka Gunathilaka, Sadeera Samarawickrama, found any number of rich shoulder injury that caused him to pull out of the US Open. date. They beat Sri Lanka in the final to win the , Oshada Fernando, Shehan philanthropic organisations The Japan Open is the first competition for Djokovic since the 2009 Twenty20 World Cup in England. Jayasuriya, Angelo Perera, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, to fund its laudable objec- incident. He nailed eight aces and never committed double fault Sarfaraz is also one of the most successful cap- Minod Bhanuka, Lahiru Madushanka, Wanindu tives,” Fry said. “Sadly it while collecting points on 82 percent of his successful first serves. tains in the shortest format, winning 29 of the 34 Hasaranga, Lakshan Sandakan, Isuru Udana, didn’t.” In the rest of the Tokyo tournament, qualifier John Millman of matches he has captained, losing only five. Nuwan Pradeep, Kasun Rajitha, Lahiru Kumara Australia defeated Japanese wild card Taro Daniel 6-4, 6-0. 04 SPORT SATURDAY 5 OCTOBER 2019 SATURDAY 5 OCTOBER 2019 SPORT 05

September 27 to October 6

Bahrain’s Salwa Eid Naser reacts after winning the women’s 400 metres final during the IAAF World Athletics Championships at the Khalifa International After retaining Stadium in Doha, on Thursday. Breaking Ennis-Hill’s record feels her crown, Lijiao unbelievable: Johnson-Thompson History-maker FAWAD HUSSAIN with the biggest winning margin of for the as soon as I saw line. Seven thousand points wasn’t THE PENINSULA victory. Thiam got the silver 6677 the clock stop at that time. meant to be but hopefully I am on points while Austria’s Verena “The most challenging event a roll now for the future,” Johnson- hungry for more “A bruise is a lesson and each Preiner won bronze medal with was the 200 because of the tight Thompson said. Eid Naser lesson makes us better.” 6560 points. schedule and we didn’t get a chance For Thiam – the Olympic and Katarina Johnson-Thompson’s Johnson-Thompson couldn’t to warm up properly,” she said. European champion – who started I train very hard FAWAD HUSSAIN feat at the IAAF World Athletics believe her points tally that gave her On how she approached the well on the first day, javelin became THE PENINSULA Championships Doha 2019 was a a new British record. 800m knowing a record was pos- a stiff challenge. week in, week living example of this phrase. “It hasn’t settled in. I was there sible, she said: “I love the 800m, “I did a very good first day – my out for it so all After winning bronze medal at the World Cham- hopes to keep After failing at the past two at London 2012 to witness her funnily enough. It is one of my best ever at a championship. There that has to be for pionships in a decade ago, Gong Lijiao has world championships, the British (Ennis-Hill) break her own British strongest events. I have been train- wasn’t one event I was super happy been winning medals often. On Thursday night, This title will definitely star bounced back in record-break- record and get the Olympic gold ing very hard for it this year. The with, I just had a good level,” she something. It’s a the Chinese star became the fourth women to ing fashion to win her heptathlon medal, so it’s unbelievable to me light show before it got me psyched said. give me a lot of confidence good way to finish win back-to-back world titles but she doesn’t improving gold medal at the Khalifa Interna- that I’ve just passed that score,” said to go. “The most challenging was the off a heptathlon for want to stop here. for my future events. tional Stadium on late Thursday the Briton. “I train very hard week in, week javelin. Mentally it’s the hardest for After a dozen of victories this year, Lijiao I’m very excited about night. While Johnson-Thompson was out for it so all that has to be for me to go through that again.” me, to just go out entered the women’s shot put final as hot favour- Johnson-Thompson,Johnson-Thompson, who waswas happy with her oveoverallrall pperform-erform- something.something. IIt’sts a a good good w wayay Preiner,Preiner, who was not in concon-- and put it all on the ite and she lived up to expectations hurling 19.55m tonight’s competition. It’s no-marked in the at the ance,ance, she was amused with her slick to finish off a tentiontention of a medal was and putt iti all on the to retain her title at the IAAF World Athletics my second victory at the 20152015 edition in BeiBeijingjing andand endedended run in the hhurdles.urdles. heptathlon for ddelightedelighted witwithh a ppodiumodium line. SeveSevenen thousand Championships Doha 2019 at Khalifa Interna- ARMSTRONG VAS up fifth at London 2017, accumuaccumu-- “The“The hurdles was the bibiggestggest me,me, to just finish.finish. points wasn’t meant World Championships in a “I wasn’t really feeling anything. I didn’t really know points wasnsn’t meant tional Stadium. THE PENINSULA how fast I was going, but while crossing the line I saw that latedlated worworldld l leadingeading 698 69811 poin pointsts an andd surprise. I never ddreamedreamed II cocoulduld gogo out anandd “I’m“I’m reareallylly hhappyappy with to be but hopefully The 30-year-old took a lead clearing a dis- row and I’m really proud I I ran a very fast time. I was so excited, I couldn’t believe claimedclaimed ppersonalersonal bbestsestss a acrosscrossc f fourour runn ththatatt ffasfast,t, 13-1313-zero,zero,ro, when II’ve’vev putput it aallll myyp performance.perpe formance. I kknewnew II to be but hoopefully tance of 19.07m in the first round, but when she managed to defend my title it,” Eid Naser said about her experience while competing events,eventsvents, settsettingttiing aa new neww BBr Britishitishsh record recordd beenbee stuckstuckuck aatt133t 13.3 13.33 ffor for a ass on ththe could fight foror a medalmedal IIam am oon a rorolloll nnowow was looking comfortable Jamaica’s Danniel Tho- Salwa Eid Naser, who became the first Asian to win the wom- in the event. tot winn the ttitle.itle.l longngg aass I cacann whenh I camee herehere,h bbut for the future: mas-Dodd threw 19.36m in the third round, from London: Lijiao en’s 400m gold with the third fastest time in history, hopes She said her coach pushed her to the limits and had full She brokebroke JeJessicassicaa EnnEnnis-Ennis-Hill’snis-is Hill’sHills remember.remembrememmember.err.r whatwhat h happenedappeneddton toni tonightghtghht ffor theh futurere:e prompting her 19.55m response in round four to to keep improving as she targets a possible world record confidence that she will notch a new time in 400m. recordreecord byy 26 pointpoinpointsintts as s shehhe ThatThThahatat t sseteet iss reareallyr llylyy ununbelievable,”believbelieelievevvableable,”able, ” JohnJohnson-Thompsonohh son-son-Thomhoh mpm soson seal victory. time at the Tokyo Olympics. “My coach always said ‘you are gonna run really fast’ dethroneddedethroe ronedd BeBBelgium’slgium’s Na Nafiafi TThiam Thiam to to mem e sheshshheesaese sasaid.aid.idd Danniel finally got a silver medal with her think a mix of these facts affected my readiness Eid Nasser stunned Olympic champion Shaunae Miller- and I used to laugh. To be frank, I never expected that fast climbclimclimmbb too six sixthth on thethehe a alall-timell-timl-l timmeme llistslistlistss upu best of 19.47 while Germany’s Christina Schwan- and took a lot of my energy,” she said. Uibo as she surged past the Bahamian on the back straight time. I was training hard but he was keep talking to me, he itz reached 19.17m to pick a bronze medal. Meanwhile, Jamaica’s Thomas-Dodd hailed to win in 48.14 seconds. never let me down. I didn’t think I would run that fast, but “This title will definitely give me a lot of con- the level of competition in the final and was happy “No, to win yes, but I was not expecting that time,” Eid I thank God he never gave up on me and supporting me.” fidence for my future events,” said Lijiao after to secure a podium finish. Nasser said. “I was dealing with a lot of things. I missed two Dia- securing the title. “It was really good. All the ladies fought def- The Bahraini athlete said her competitors pushed her to mond League races and coming back here and “I’m very excited about tonight’s competi- initely hard. To get the podium tonight wasn’t achieve the record timing at the IAAF World winning and running this fast time means a tion. It’s my second victory at the World easy. So, to finish among the top three was the Championships. lot. I never doubted for myself,” she said. Championships in a row and I’m really proud I highlight of this competition for me,” she said. “Running with these amazing ladies, I don’t think I would managed to defend my title from London. In the “I think I could go further. If my throws dur- have done it alone. Especially against Shaunae Miller-Uibo, same time, I’m happy that all these things ended, ing the first three rounds were technically the I always run for the best because she is a really strong ath- as, actually, I’m not satisfied with my result,” she same or close to the one I had in the fifth round, lete. I think they really pushed me to get this time,” the said. it would be a different competition,” Thomas- 21-year-old Nigerian-born athlete said. She was feeling lucky to win the crown after Dodd added. Miller-Uibo took silver in 48.37 as the Bahamian suf- a miscalculation in the warm-up session ahead Bronze-winning Schwanitz said: “I’m very fered her first defeat over the distance since she inexplicably of the finalfinal.. happy.happy. Competition was was really really great great for for me me con con-- stumbled with victory in her grasp in London two years ago. “I think I did my biggest mistake tonight dur-dur- sideringsidering so manymany cchangeshanges in in my my life, life, which which I haveI have “Whenever I run with this fast lady, I always run fast inging warminwarming-up,g-up, as as I I did did too too m manyany throws throws before before to copecope after ggivingiving birthbirth toto mmyy twins. twins. I’ I’mm not not an an times. Running this race really motivated me a lot. I keep the competition started. The T h e 18-year-old18-year-old and I still can win world medals. It my fingers crossed for the Olympics, I hope I will keep on Whenever I run with this fast weatherweather was veryvery was cocompetitionmpetition I’I’mm prouproudd for. for.”” improving,” she said on her rivalry with Miller-Uibo will lady (Shaunae Miller-Uibo), I hothd andan ddI I Thehdhhkh GermanGe rman s saidaid shshee was wass notno not th thinkinginking muc muchh propel her towards the world record. always run fast times. Running aboutaboubout the nenextxt seaseason.son.n. “II eveevenn diddidndididn’t’t thithinknkk yet yet about aboutut nexne nextext year. year. this race really motivated me a SometimesSometiSomom meses it iit’s’di’s dif difficultficultfif to to sa sayy mym myyp p lansplans lot. I keep my fingers crossed for forfoor ththee nenextext two two w weeks.eeks.e Certai Certainly,rtaiinlynly,, I thinkthink abouababoutbouttt theththe OlympiOlympics.ics. ItItt the Olympics, I hope I will keep shouldhoulduld bee a great compecompe-mpe- on improving: Salwa Eid Naser tition,titionn, bbutbut it’sit’s s stilltillill t toooo farf far fromfrofr today,”today,”” shes said.saids

Great Britain’s Katarina Johnson-Thompson celebrates after winning the gold medal in the women’s heptathlon on Thursday. Silver double for Uibo family at Doha Worlds ARMSTRONG VAS Bahama’s Shaunae THE PENINSULA Miller-Uibo reacts after finishing second Following the athletics proceedings from the the in women’s 400 massage table is certainly not the easiest things metres final. RIGHT: to do especially if your wife is one of the com- Estonia’s Maicel We are a family, we always Uibo celebrates petitors and you are getting ready for a 1500m share our dreams, we push race, the final event of the . after winning the But that is precisely what Maicel Uibo of silver medal in the one another to do our best. Estonian did on Thursday during the IAAF men’s decathlon on Thursday. I am very proud of him of World Championships. He was closely fol- how he competed and I am lowing his Bahamian wife Shaunae Miller-Uibo 400m race. sure he is proud of me. We Both ended up getting silver in their didn’t get the gold, may respective events sending Estonian and Bahamas fans into a celebration mood be next time: Shaunae while bringing cheers to the Uibo Miller-Uibo family. “Yes, I was able to refresh the results page when she was running, Florida. We go to practice every day at the while I was on the massage table same time and sometimes we do running getting ready for my 1500m,” Mai- work-outs together. So it’s always a little com- cel, who won silver in the petitive on the track and off the track,” Decathlon event on Thursday night, Shaunae said. said. I am really happy about him especially,” she The Uibo couple only got to know that their him compete, my coach said ‘OK Shaunae put “Off the track we argue about anything – “I think she did very well – 48.3 said. events - 400m and the final decathlon event away the phone’. Hopefully next year we won’t who our dogs love the most, really random is not an easy time to hit and I’m very She was hopeful that the silver will turn - will happen at the same time a few weeks collide but it was a great experience this time, things,” she added. proud of her,” he added. to gold in the next event. before the championship. with both of us celebrating together.” Shaunae is planning to do the heptathlon Shaunae was delighted to win a “We are a family, we always share our “We didn’t realise only until a few weeks Both Maicel and Shaunae have been train- next. medal on the same night with her husband dreams, we push one another to do our best. before we headed down here. We knew it was ing together and have been leaving no stone “I am definitely looking at doing it in one in the women’s 400m. I am very proud of him of how he competed going to be a little difficult because it will be unturned. of these years. China’s Gong Lijiao celebrates after winning the women’s shot put final on Thursday. “It was a blessing; especially since we both and I am sure he is proud of me. We didn’t get hard to watch each other competing, but we “Of course, as athletes we are very com- “Maical was a big influence. It will be a lit- won medals. We both worked hard this year, the gold, may be next time,” Shaunae said. made our way. Even earlier when I watched petitive. We train together in Cerlmont, tle fun to try it and see how it goes.” 06 SPORT SATURDAY 5 OCTOBER 2019

September 27 - October 6

Repsol Honda’s Marc Marquez NHL RESULTS during practice at the Thailand Grand Prix being held at Chang Carolina 4 Montreal 3 International Circuit, Buriram, Ny Rangers 6 Winnipeg 4 yesterday. Buffalo 3 Pittsburgh 1 Tampa Bay 5 Florida 2 Nashville 5 Minnesota 2 Boston 2 Dallas 1 Colorado 5 Calgary 3 Anaheim 2 Arizona 1

BASEBALL Major League playoff Division Series National League At Atlanta Fortunately he is OK. St. Louis Cardinals 7 Atlanta We went to the hospital Braves 6 and they did an MRI and (St. Louis lead series 1-0) everything looks fine. At Los Angeles Of course, he had some Washington Nationals 0 Los contusions in the back Angeles Dodgers 6 and also in the leg, and also here in the hip a (Los Angeles lead series 1-0) Marquez back on track in little bit, but nothing to be worried about. We OLYMPICS were lucky for today. Repsol Honda team boss Tokyo Games Thailand after huge crash Alberto Puig organisers

AGENCIES he will have some treatment probably, from FP1, the Yamahas of Rossi (Monster determined, the opening laps from the look for advice BANGKOK some massage or something,” added the Energy Yamaha MotoGP) and teammate Champion-elect showcased his out- to battle heat Spaniard. Viñales confirmed their pace in the final standing ability to put any misdemeanours Honda’s MotoGP leader Marc Marquez had Puig said the rider had been on the part of the day. behind him almost seamlessly. next year a huge crash and was taken to hospital outside line and the tyre probably picked With less than four minutes on the However, he would not be able to go yesterday before returning to set quick laps up some dirt. clock, Viñales stormed to the top of the any quicker in the session and in the end, REUTERS in practice for what promises to be a title- When Marquez returned to the track combined times. Morbidelli followed his would end up in sixth on the combined LAUSANNE deciding Thai Grand Prix. he was fastest for a while before slipping fellow Yamaha rider to second place. But timesheets, the only Honda inside the top The Spaniard, 98 points clear of closest down the order as the Yamahas found their pipping the pair of them, 20-year-old ten. rival Andrea Dovizioso with five races pace. Quartararo set a 1’30.404 to go top and end Strong form from MotorLand Aragon Organisers of next year’s remaining and a sixth title beckoning, French rider Fabio Quartararo topped day one as the man to beat. The fourth looks to be no fluke for Aprilia, as Aleix Tokyo Olympics are looking ended the day’s second session at the the timesheets at the end of the day for Yamaha of Rossi was fifth in the end and Espargaro (Aprilia Racing Team Gresini) for new ways to battle the Chang International circuit sixth fastest. Petronas Yamaha, ahead of factory well in the hunt. finished the session with fast times and was heat and are asking sports Marquez was flung off his bike after Yamaha rider Maverick Vinales and Pet- Australian Miller (Pramac Racing) led just over a tenth from Marquez. federations for advice, the losing the rear with 10 minutes to go in the ronas team mate Franco Morbidelli. the Ducati charge from fourth place, just Espargaro was briefly joined in the top International Olympic first session, landing heavily. He stayed Australian Jack Miller was fourth under three tenths off the pace at the front ten by teammate Andrea Iannone but the Committee said yesterday. down for a while, struggling to breathe, quickest for Pramac Ducati, ahead of set by Quartararo. His teammate, Italian slipped to 16th, just 1.108 from Quar- IOC President Thomas while the Honda was badly damaged. Yamaha’s Italian great Valentino Rossi. Francesco Bagnaia, was 12th on combined tararo’s top time. Aprilia are in the fight Bach said Japanese organ- He was taken to the circuit medical Dovizioso was eighth. times, one place below Danilo Petrucci again. isers had sent out a ques- centre and then to hospital in nearby Marquez will take the title, his fourth (Ducati Team). After technical problems in FP1, Alex tionnaire to federations to Buriram for checks before being cleared in a row, tomorrow if he scores two points Petrucci had been inside the top ten Rins and his Team Suzuki Ecstar squad see what measures they to continue. more than Dovizioso. after FP1 but slipped to eleventh due to the were back in the top ten come the con- take to counter heat at their “Fortunately he is OK,” Repsol Honda The Spaniard won from pole position flurry of improvements at the close of the clusion of the opening day at the Chang competitions. team boss Alberto Puig told reporters. “We in Thailand last year and also set the fastest session. Second in the championship and International Circuit. “Part of the discussion went to the hospital and they did an MRI lap of the race. Dovizioso finished second. race win challenger from 2018 in Buriram, However, his rookie teammate held (today at the IOC Executive and everything looks fine. Earlier after Marquez wasted no time Dovizioso (Ducati Team) was eighth overall top Suzuki honours. Joan Mir set consistent Board) was the heat “Of course, he had some contusions in at all in getting back down to business, the but gives himself work to do for the rest of times right through the session and would counter-measures,” Bach the back and also in the leg, and also here Yamaha onslaught came and it would be the weekend. end up in ninth, with a place secured inside said. in the hip a little bit, but nothing to be Quartararo who led Viñales and Morbidelli Marquez hit the track and on just his the top ten should rain close in. Rins was “Tokyo 2020 informed worried about. We were lucky for today. (Petronas Yamaha SRT), making it a third lap of the session, fired in the best tenth and importantly inside the top ten in us that they have reached “We will continue with the plan and Yamaha 1-2-3. Continuing their success time of the weekend. Injured yet case of a wet FP3 today morning. ` out to each international federation with a special heat counter-measures questionnaire so that they can benefit from their best Rossi signs new crew chief for 2020 title charge experiences,” Bach said. “It shows the determi- WWW.MOTOGP.COM MotoGP. He is very young and nation of the organising BANGKOK The star rider’s quest for a 10th title is strong as ever as he has good ideas and, in the end, committee to address this re-invents himself once more for fresh ideas and more success. everyone is happy. Silvano is issue. I am confident that Yesterday evening at the PTT also happy to stay in the test (international athletics’ Thailand Grand Prix, sensa- team, so we will try, and see if governing body) IAAF will tional changes were announced we can become stronger.” share their experiences in by Valentino Rossi (Monster Looking to 2020, the Doha.” Energy Yamaha MotoGP) with 40-year-old Italian is opti- Temperatures in Tokyo regards to his team structure mistic and excited about his during July and August, for 2020. new crew chief: “His was the when the city hosts the The nine-time MotoGP™ first name because I know him Olympic and Paralympic World Champion is still looking very well, I follow the team Games, commonly exceed to fight for a tenth crown and well. Last year, he did a very 30 degrees Celsius, with will change his Crew Chief for good job with Pecco. I liked the high humidity adding to the next season, replacing Silvano way that he managed the end discomfort. Galbusera with Nicolo Bulega’s of the season when he had a lot Organisers plan to start (SKY Racing Team VR46) Crew of pressure and Pecco was a the marathons at 6am next Chief from this season, David little bit nervous of losing the year to avoid the midday Muñoz. championship with Oliveira, I heat, with major roads on Muñoz worked with liked how he is quiet and the much of the course painted Francesco Bagnaia (Pramac way he managed the situation. with a resin organisers say Racing) last season during his I asked him.” will reflect infrared rays to title-clinching Moto2 campaign He added: “Unfortunately, cut temperatures by as and has been a driving force Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP’s Italian rider Valentino Rossi rides during the second practice something negative for our team much as eight degrees behind Bulega’s return to good because he’s very important for Celsius. session of Thailand Grand Prix at Buriram International Circuit in Buriram yesterday. form in 2019. our team, but it’s something to Among other measures Rossi, who will be 41 when try, so we shall see.” planned are artificial snow the racing season starts next change, saying: “Yes, it is true. team stronger for next year, to together and decide that The news comes as the PTT to cool athletes and spec- year, will continue to reinvent For next year I will change my improve the work in .” Silvano will go to the test team Thailand Grand Prix is less than tators down. himself in a quest to go for a chief mechanic. After Misano, Galbusera came to replace and I will have another chief 24 hours from beginning, an Heat was not a problem tenth title in the premier class. we speak together with Silvano Jeremy Burgess as Rossi’s Crew mechanic. He is coming from event that Rossi was strong at last time Tokyo hosted the Galbusera arrived in Rossi’s because we want to try and do Chief in 2014 and the two have our team in Moto2. His name is in 2018, leading laps during the Games in 1964 because they corner in 2014, but ‘The Doctor’ something to be stronger. It was taken nine wins together in the David (Muñoz) and he worked race after a front row start, opened in October. is prescribing himself a fresh a different factor all together, six seasons they have worked together with ‘Pecco’ last year before finishing a solid fourth. Since 1976, however, change in his quest of a resur- as Silvano wants to continue together. and won the championship, Will ‘The Doctor’ be able to most summer Games in the gence to the front of the working for Yamaha but with Continuing, Rossi stated and with Nicolo this year.” put together another strong northern hemisphere have MotoGP field. less stress and less days out of some surprise at the change: He added: “I am excited and weekend for the second-ever been held in the middle of Speaking the press con- Italy. Also, at the same time, “Sincerely, I didn’t expect at the it is new experience, he doesn’t MotoGP race at the Chang summer to fit in with global ference, Rossi confirmed the Yamaha want to make the test beginning, but we speak have any experience with International Circuit? broadcasting schedules. SATURDAY 5 OCTOBER 2019 SPORT 07

September 27 - October 6

Group A: Boks turn on the power against Italy Scots bid to keep Russia REUTERS FUKUROI CITY South Africa’s wing (left) is tackled by Italy’s in their sights scrum-half Callum Braley during their 2019 Rugby World South Africa ramped up the Cup, Pool B, match at the Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa in as Japan physicality to crush an Italy side Shizuoka yesterday. reduced to 14 men for most of clash looms the second half 49-3 yesterday, moving above the Italians and REUTERS New Zealand to the top of Rugby World Cup Pool B in the process. The Springboks have never Scotland are not looking any failed to reach the quarter-finals further ahead in the Rugby of the World Cup and they all but World Cup than their match erased that possibility at this against Russia even though tournament with a display of their final pool clash with controlled brutality at Shizuoka Japan looks set to determine Stadium. which side advances to the The ever-dangerous Cheslin quarter-finals, assistant coach Kolbe scored a try in each half Danny Wilson said yesterday. and Bongi Mbonambi, Lukhanyo Japan, second behind Am, , RG Ireland in Pool A with 9 Snyman and Malcolm Marx also points, face Samoa in Toyota crossed to comfortably earn the City today before the Scots, on twice World Cup winners a 5 points, take on the Russians bonus point. next Wednesday in Shizuoka Italy’s already tricky task seeking a crucial bonus point became nigh on impossible when to stay in contention. they had prop Andrea Lovotti Japan, however, will have sent off for dropping Duane Ver- eight days’ preparation for the meulen on his head in the 43rd Yokohama showdown with minute and their slim hopes of the Scots, who will only be progressing now rest on beating granted four. the All Blacks for the first time. “We are not seeing past “It was tough in the Italy had spoken before the dazzling Kolbe, and he stepped five metres from the line, Lovotti close to the line by the lock and that (Russia) game at the beginning, we knew what the game of how discipline would inside and out to beat two inexplicably tipped Vermeulen Marx barged over from a driving moment,” Wilson told challenge would be and that it be crucial in deciding the defenders and score in the through 180 degrees and allowed maul with the final play of the reporters in Kobe. would be a forward battle, so outcome but they specatacularly corner. him to fall onto his head for a game as a deflated and defeated “Obviously in the back of from the first scrum we wanted failed to back their words with The Boks were rewarded for clear red card offence. Italy crumbled. your mind you do need to to give everything,” South Africa action as they battled to match some positive play to score their With that went any realistic “We played against a very prepare for a short turna- captain Siya Kolisi told reporters. the physicality of their fired-up second try as Pollard turned hopes for Italy and, after Pol- strong side,” Italian captain round to play Japan, but we “We wanted to control the opponents. down a kickable penalty and lard’s clever kick out of hand set Sergio Parisse said. won’t be taking this first chal- set-pieces, because they are very It was not vintage from the from that attacking set-piece Kolbe in for his second score, Am “We tried to come back in the lenge lightly. strong in that, and we did that Boks despite the scoreline, but they were able to muscle the ball intercepted for the bonus-point second half but after the red card “We know we need to get today. “It’s been a tough couple there were enough signs of over the line through Mbonambi try and Mapimpi profited from it was very difficult. maximum points out of this of weeks but we have regrouped. improvement from their opening for a 17-3 halftime lead. a neat chip by Willie le Roux to “It’s tough for us, but we game, which will be a chal- Our coaches and management 23-13 loss to New Zealand to Italy, desperate to get back also cross. must keep going forward. We are lenge in itself, and one we have been backing us by giving suggest they remain a real threat. in the game, started the second Snyman got on the very disappointed. relish.” us as much information as pos- South Africa took the lead half with a thrilling break into scoresheet when Matteo “But we must try and finish The durable 20th-ranked sible and the way we responded from an early attacking line-out the Bok 22, but, having been Minozzi’s high-risk, low-reward well against the All Blacks (on Russians have proved difficult today was really good.” as the ball was spun wide to the awarded a penalty for offside just blind reverse pass was collected Oct 12),” he said. for sides to put away in their three matches so far, although their conservative game plan Retallick boosts is built more on defence than attack. They pushed Japan in the All Blacks before opening match of the tour- nament in Tokyo before Namibia clash Samoa needed a strong second half to defeat them in REUTERS Kumagaya. TOKYO It also took Ireland until the final quarter to achieve a All Blacks coach Steve Hansen knew that Brodie bonus-point try in Kobe on Retallick was ready to make a comeback from a dislo- Thursday in a match which cated shoulder when he started annoying everyone saw The Bears reduced to 14 around him. men for 20 minutes. The lock, named to start against Namibia in their “You have seen a pretty World Cup match tomorrow, dislocated his shoulder passionate, physical bunch against South Africa in July and suffered nerve and their defensive physicality damage which he feared would rule him out of the has really brought a lot to the tournament. party,” Wilson told reporters “He has decided to be an annoying guy again so yesterday that’s a good sign,” Hansen told reporters yesterday “They have frustrated in the run-up to their penultimate Pool B match when teams at times in this tour- South Africa’s players celebrate after winning their 2019 Rugby World Cup he expects his side to continue developing their game nament and we will expect match at the Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa in Shizuoka yesterday. plan ahead of the quarter-finals. exactly the same. “He has come back from injuries and personal “With it being their last tragedy in the past so he knows how to go about doing game, it does present a Jones could steer England that. There is no doubting his work ethic, you see it potential opportunity for them when he plays and it is just an extension of that. (and)... they will obviously a long way, says Jackman “He loves playing and to have something you love want to get a victory. taken away from you, it’s pretty easy to work hard “I know they will be very to get back out there.” well prepared for that,” he REUTERS The return of the 6ft 8ins (2.03m) Retallick only added. LONDON boosts the All Blacks ahead of the knockout phases, Wilson added that prop with tomorrow’s game, starting at 1:45 p.m. (0445 Allan Dell (concussion) and England coach Eddie Jones has an attention to detail which is “off the scales”, GMT) at Tokyo Stadium, likely to be little more than flanker John Barclay (groin) is a great actor in front of the media and can lead England a long way at the an extended contested training run. were progressing well as World Cup, according to former Ireland international Bernard Jackman. That has allowed Hansen to rest both Richie Scotland prepared for their The former Sale, Leinster and Ireland hooker, who spent time with Jones Mo’unga and Beauden Barrett and give utility back final week of pool play with when he was in charge of Japan before the 2015 World Cup, said the Aus- Jordie Barrett his first start at flyhalf. two games four days apart. tralian coach had an unbelievable desire to learn and grow. The Africans are the lowest ranked side in the “We know we have got a “His level of detail is off the scales. For example, he read a study on what tournament at 23 and have suffered heavy defeats challenge based on two games the ideal lighting was for optimal learning at video sessions and insists all to both Italy and South Africa and their goal will no over quite a short period,” his meeting rooms have that light level,” Jackman told the Global Sports doubt be to limit the damage the All Blacks inflict Wilson said. Forum chatroom run by data company Refinitiv yesterday. upon them. Their only previous encounter was at the “That is the challenge of a “He spends time in high-level business teams and educators looking for 2015 World Cup and ended in a 58-14 victory to the World Cup. that little one percent extra. Eddie loves data and pushes his support staff All Blacks, who ran up a comfortable 34-6 lead at “We have got a good incredibly hard to provide the data he needs. I think England are in a great halftime. squad with some real quality place despite not being overly impressive in Japan. I think England’s pack Namibia captain Johan Deysel, who scored a try in it and it is important we could do a job on New Zealand (later in the tournament). They are the best in that 2015 game and said it was one of the high- manage that well over that northern hemisphere side.” lights of his career, was keen for his side to be com- short period between games.” The Irish coach said Jones also hides his real personality from the media. petitive, however, and seize their opportunities. LEFT: Italy’s lock Alessandro “The Eddie that you see in the media isn’t the real Eddie. He plays the “We took a lot from that game,” Deysel said yes- Zanni catches the ball during role of an actor,” he said. “The real Eddie loves fun and banter -- and he terday. “They put a lot of pressure on every facet of loves developing leaders and winning.” play. It isn’t easy but they are just humans. the 2019 Rugby World Cup Jackman, who has coached in France with Grenoble as well as in Wales “It is a big opportunity. Anything can happen and match against South Africa with the Dragons, was speaking after a trip to Japan and he was particu- small opportunities like that can have a massive the Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa larly critical of the refereeing of offside at the tournament. impact on your career and your life.” in Shizuoka yesterday. SATURDAY 5 OCTOBER 2019 SPORT 08 MotoGP World Champion It was a nightmare, TODAY’S FIXTURES (QATAR TIME) around five seconds Marc Marquez after a crash during practice AUSTRALIA VS URUGUAY (Pool D) 13:15 I couldn’t breathe. at the Chang International ENGLAND VS ARGENTINA (Pool C) 10:45 It was a big impact. Circuit in Thailand, yesterday. JAPAN VS SAMOA (Pool A) 13:15

September 27 - October 6 Group 1 Glory for Sheikh Mohamed’s Amyr Du Soleil

THE PENINSULA Amyr Du Soleil, ridden by Julien Augé, on his way to win the Qatar Arabian Des Poulains at the PARIS Saint-Cloud racecourse in Paris, yesterday.

The three-year-old colt Amyr Du Soleil took his first Group 1 win in hugely impressive style in the Qatar Arabian Trophy des Poulains (Gr1 PA) in the colours of H H Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Thani, demolishing the field in a show of extraor- dinary class at Saint-Cloud yesterday. The grey colt of Amyr has come rapidly up the ladder since his racing debut in June when he was second. He then put the pen- dulum to rights winning the Group 3 Prix Tidjani in July with great style before returning from his summer break with an HH Sheikh Mohamed Bin Khalifa Al Thani (left) receiving the winner’s emphatic victory in the French trophy from Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club’s Chairman Issa Al Arabian Breeders’ Challenge- Mohannedi after Amyr Du Soleil won the Qatar Arabian Trophy des Poulians (Gr2) in September at Poulains (Gr1 PA) at Saint-Cloud, Paris, yesterday. Toulouse. Yesterday, he confirmed that being somewhat keen in the challenged in a display of supe- further length behind in third Amyr Du Soleil began his Deymonaz and is out of Bal- he is the outstanding leader of early stages. He sat just behind riority. The JF Bernard-trained under Vincent Cheminaud. racing carrier in the colours of ladore (Dormane), a full sister to the three-year-old Purebred the leaders in the early stages and Jean-Bernard Eyquem- “Since the beginning of the Lisa Deymonaz before being Dormah De Brugère, a seven- Arabian colts in France, putting before taking the lead in the final ridden Jarif finished in second year I have told the owners that transferred to the famous blue time winner including the the race to bed early in the turn. place, with Al Shaqab Racing- he was a very nice horse”, com- and white stars of H H Sheikh Jumeirah International Stakes straight to win by six lengths He quickly took lengths off owned and Thomas Fourcy- mented winning trainer Thomas Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Thani. and the Arabian International under jockey Julien Augé despite the racing field and was never ridden Mounjared Al Cham, a Fourcy. He was bred by Lisa and Pierre Stakes (Gr2s PA). QREC Chairman Lady Princess clinches Qatar lauds Qatari success in Arabian races Arabian Trophy Des Pouliches at Saint-Cloud THE PENINSULA PARIS THE PENINSULA PARIS Lady Princess, who runs in the colours of Sheail bin Khalifa Al Kuwari, added a second Group1 Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club (QREC) Chairman PA to her tally, keeping the scorecard of her young Issa bin Mohammed Al Mohannadi lauded the Qatari career unblemished. victories at Saint-Cloud yesterday, as part of the events In the hands of Christophe Soumilon, who associated with the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe gave her a copybook ride, she justified her weekend. favourite status in the Qatar Arabian Trophy des “I’m very pleased with victory made in presence Pouliches when winning by three quarters of a of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al length. She was coming here off a win in the Thani, owner of Al Shahania Stud,” Al Mohannadi said Group1 PA Al Rayyan Cup (Pric Kesberoy) at after the races. Deauville in August, having debuted successfully “The win scored for Sheail bin Khalifa Al Kuwari at Toulouse last April. is also a demonstration of Qatari owners’ commitment Thirteen runners lined up in this 2000-metre and ability to run their horses and win outside Qatar. race, which crowns the best three-year-old It is an excellent start, giving a very positive indicator Purebred Arabian filly in France. Lady Princess of the success of the Qatar-sponsored Qatar Prix de jumped quietly and her jockey allowed the others l’Arc de Triomphe,” the QREC Chairman said. to go forward before settling mid-division. He Lady Princess, ridden by Christophe Soumilon, on her way to win the Qatar Arabian Trophy “The victories of Amyr Du Soleil and Lady Princess stayed in touch with the leaders in the final turn Des Pouliches at the Saint-Cloud racecourse in Paris, yesterday. in the Qatar Arabian Trophies for colts and fillies reflect when the pace began to pick up and once in the QREC’s commitment to Arabian racing and vision to straight, the bay daughter of General came up promote as a world hub for horse racing and a leader to join the leaders two furlongs from the fin- five lenghts behind in third under Jean-Bernard lost nothing by it. My runners will now have a in the pure Arabian breed. We look forward to Sunday ishing line before taking the lead in the final Eyquem. break. Amyr Du Soleil and Lady Princess will stay and a Qatari victory in the Qatar Arabian World Cup, furlong. “She is a star, even though, as her jockey con- in France for next year,” Fourcy said. especially as Qatar has had a lion’s share of the coveted She won under a hands and heels ride from firmed, the ground was not her cup of tea,” com- Lady Princess is a daughter of General and is title in the previous editions. In addition, the presence Soumillon, who encouraged her every stride, mented winning trainer Thomas Fourcy out of Group3 PA Prix Damas scorer Nacree Al of His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Khalifa Al Thani- staying on well. The Al Shaqab Racing-owned “She has a huge heart. She was holding back, Maury, dam of Mister Ginoux, winner of the Qatar owned and bred French King in the Qatar Prix de l’Arc and Thomas Fourcy-trained Meethag finished but when she saw the others, she went for the International Trophy (Gr1 PA) and the Qatar Derby de Triomhe reflects a bright image of Qatar’s horse in second under Jerome Cabre. The His Highness win. She is the Zarkava of Purebred Arabians. des Pur-sang Arabes (Gr2 PA), now a sire at Haras racing and equestrian sport. It is brilliant to have a Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Thani-owned She doesn’t put on a show, but she is extraor- de Thouars. This is the exceptional female line of Qatari-owned and bred horse in the world’s best race,” and Mrs J F Bernard-trained Artemis was further dinary. Meethag finished a good second. She has blue hen and foundation mare Nevada II. Al Mohannadi said. Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe weekend kicks off today

THE PENINSULA feature ten 4YO fillies, who will contest The other runners are Moonlight Spirit, The €70,000 Qatar Grand Race 8 will be the €300,000 Gr1 PARIS over 2000 metres. Three will run in the Iskanderhon, Dashing Willoughby, Handicap Des Juments (Race 4) will be Qatar Prix Du Cadran is reserved for colours of H H Sheikh Mohammed bin Nayef Road, San Huberto, Ashrun, Tech- for 3YO+ fillies and mares over 2000 4YO+ stayers. Ten runners will do their The stage is set for the Qatar Prix de Khalifa Al Thani; Aksinya, Al Ryma nician, Golden Box and Muette. metres. 16 fillies and mares will be con- best to prove their stamina over 4000 l’Arc de Triomphe weekend to kick off Monlau and Raahah. Al Shaqab Racing Earlier, the opener will be the testing in this race. metres. today. Over two days, the world’s best representative in this race is Al €200,000 Gr2 Qatar Prix Dollar for Race 5 will be the €275,000 Haras They are Dee Ex Bee, Mille Et Mille, thoroughbreds and Arabians, ridden Haffanah, who won the Qatar Arabian 3YO+ over 1950 metres and will start de Bouquetot - Critérium de la Vente Way To Paris, Holdthasigreen, Who by the most celebrated jockeys, will Trophy Des Pouliches last year. The at 02:30pm Doha time. The six runners d’Octobre Arqana. 14 two-year-old Dares Wins, Cleonte, Falcon Eight, Call descend on the ParisLongchamp race- other runners are Jadeeda, Durat Al of this race are Mountain Angel, Ska- runners will contest over a mile. The Wind, Funny Kid and Line Des course. Zaman, R’ezala, Jaazmah Athbah, Viva- lleti, Villa Rosa, Line Of Duty, Flambeur The €300,000 Gr1 Qatar Prix De Ongrais. As many as 98 horses will feature baina and Bayan. and Leo De Fury. Royallieu (Race 6) is reserved for 3YO+ Race 9, the Prix Qatar Racing And in nine races one Day 1, including three The €200,000 Gr2 Qatar Prix Chau- Race 3 will be the €200,000 Gr2 fillies and mares over 2800 metres. The Equestrian Club will conclude the day Group1s and three Group2s. denay (Race7 – 6pm Doha time) is for Qatar Prix Daniel Wildenstein for 3YO+ nine runners in this race are Enbihaar, at 7:10 pm Doha time. 18 3YO+ fillies At 03:00pm Doha time, the 3YO over 3000 metres. Ten runners will over a mile. There will be five runners; Pilaster, Musis Amica, Lah Ti Dar, Muta- and mares will contest in the 2000 €150,000 (Gr1 PA) Qatar Arabian be in the fray. Al Shaqab Racing will be The Revenant, Olmedo, Impulsif, makina, South Sea Pearl, Anapurna, metres handicap carrying a purse of Trophy Des Juments (Race 2) will represented in this race by Lucky Lycra. Shaman and Tauran Shaman. Delphinia and Satomi. €28,000.