The first world record of the IAAF World Athletics Championships Doha 2019 came just half way through the second session of competition asUSA won their heat of the mixed 4x400m yesterday.
The event, making its debut at the championships, attracted the powerhouses of one-lap sprinting, many of whom were drawn in the firstheat. USA led from the outset, thanks to a 44.51 run from Tyrell Richard. He then handed over to Jessica Beard and Jasmine Blocker, whomaintained the USA’s lead with near identical splits of 51.20 and 51.27 respectively.
With strong challenges mounting on the final leg from Jamaica, Bahrain and Great Britain, USA’s Ogi Igbokwe put in a 45.44 effort on anchorto bring the team home in 3:12.42. Previous record mark was held by USA (3:13.20 in 2016).
Four teams bettered that time yesterday in Doha, all from the first heat. Jamaica finished second in 3:12.73, Bahrain was third in an Asian record of 3:12.74 and Great Britain & Northern Ireland placed fourth in 3:12.80. Poland won the second heat in 3:15.47. The mixed 4x400m final will be held today.
