Jamaica's Antonio Watson looks at his gold medal after winning the men's 400m final during the World Athletics Championships at the National Athletics Centre in Budapest on August 24, 2023. Jewel SAMAD / AFP
June 27, 2024
KINGSTON, Jamaica — World Champion Antonio Watson failed to complete his men’s 400m semi-finals on Thursday’s opening day of the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA) National Senior Championships at the National Stadium, pulling up after 200 metres and walking off the track.
There were doubts surrounding Watson’s participation after he withdrew from the Racers Grand Prix earlier this month and his coach Glen Mills said this week the athlete’s fitness was in doubt.
Meanwhile, Sean Bailey stayed on course to retain his national title after he ran 44.95 seconds to win his heat and lead all qualifiers into Friday’s final.
Bailey just held off JeVaughn Powell who advanced with 45.00 seconds while Deandre Watkin — 45.19 seconds, Zandrion Barnes — 45.34 seconds and Raheem Hayles — 45.55 seconds also made progress.
Anthony Cox, Demish Gaye and national record holder Rusheen McDonald filled out the field for the final.
— Paul A Reid