PHILADELPHIA – Shortly after seeing Jamaican sprinter Jason Livermore pulled up in the USA vs the World Men 4x200m at the 2016 Penn Relays, American Justin Gatlin is wishing him a speedy recovery.
After a short delay, accompanied and a few gestures from the Jamaican supporters towards the American first leg runner Isiah Young after he left his blocks early, but survived with just a recall, the race finally went off.
However, the Jamaicans, who had won the USA vs the World Men 4x100m earlier, were immediately affected when Livermore pulled up with what looked like a hamstring injury.
Gatlin managed to stay focus on his own leg to help the winning USA team, but the 2004 Athens Olympic 100m champion took the time after the race to send some comforting words to Livermore.
“I want a speedy recovery for Jason,” Gatlin told NBC Sports Network in an interview after the race.
“I know him very well. He’s a competitor, but he’s also a friend so I want a speedy recovery for him.”
The team of Isiah Young, Justin Gatlin, Wallace Spearmon and Mike Rodgers crossed the finishing line in 1:20.94 to take the victory and they were never challenged.
St. Kitts & Nevis was second in 1:23.31 with Nigeria taking third 1:24.09.
