KINGSTON, Jamaica — Olympic champion Melaine Walker and her training partner Kaliese Spencer both moved into the final of the women’s 400m hurdles, following victories in their heats at the Jamaica Olympic Trials at the National Stadium on Thursday.
Walker, who won gold at the Beijing Games in 2008, posted 54.88 seconds, the day’s fastest time on her way to winning heat two of the event.
She finished ahead of Shevone Studdart, who ran 56.09, while high school star Janieve Russell ran 57.04 and also qualified for the final.
Meanwhile, Daegu fourth placed finisher Spencer eased to victory in a time of 55.92 to book her place in the final as well.
She finished in front of Daniel Dowie, who clocked 56.85, Nickesha Wilson (56.95) and Sonali Merril (57.89).
On the men’s side, Joseph Robertson edged to victory over Roxroy Cato and qualified with the quickest time of 50.03 to his challenger’s 50.09.
Leeford Greene raced to 50.57secs to beat Danny McFarlane (50.96) in the next heat.
World record holder and reigning Olympic champion Usain Bolt, former record holder Asafa Powell and Yohan Blake will be in action later.
