Men 400 final
2 years after winning silver in Paris, Britain’s Jamie Baulch won gold with a masterful display of indoor running in Maebashi. Stopping the clock at 45.73, Baulch had taken the race by the scruff of the neck, his pattering stride and determination putting him in pole position after 200m – reached in a scorching 21.13. After that he refused to give up the inside lane, and held on powerfully for the final lap. Behind him, there was a terrific battle for the minor medals with Milton Campbell, Alejandro Cardenas and Troy McIntosh all in the frame. Just 6 100ths of a second separated them at the finish with McIntosh losing out on a medal despite setting a national record.
Gold Medallist - BAULCH Jamie (GBR)
"I got to the bell first which is crucial indoors. If you do not dominate the
race by that point your chance of success is very limited.
I have now developed a better tactical awareness for running on these relatively tight
indoor curves. This has been the main difference between my run for silver in Paris and
gold here today.
Obviously I am pleased and this promises much for the summer and Seville."
Silver Medallist - CAMPBELL Milton (USA)
"Just before the bell Jamie (BAULCH) seemed to come out of nowhere. That was the
decisive moment of the race. Of course I am pleased in such a tight race to have come away
with a medal, it is just a pity it is not the gold."
Bronze Medallist - CARDENAS Alejandro (MEX)
"This is the first medal for Mexico. So it means a lot both to me and to Mexico.
At the moment there are many problems in Mexico, so maybe this medal will be an
inspiration to people. My dive at the line was spontaneous, but very helpful (smiling).
Three weeks ago I had to stop training for a few days because of an old knee injury, but
it feels good now. In fact everything feels good now. In the future I would like to be in
the final in Seville, and maybe win the another medal for my country"
