Jerome Singleton and his rival Paralympic champion Oscar Pistorius took centre stage at the IPC Athletics World Championships this evening, while Australia’s biggest medal hope for the night Simon Patmore was disqualified from the T46 100m for arm amputees.
Dead heating in a time of 11.34 (w: -2.2) in the highly anticipated event for leg amputees, Beijing silver medallist Singleton and world record holder Pistorius faced a nervous trackside wait before the 24-year-old American was declared victorious in a photo finish.
“Yes sir, I have been waiting for this my whole life,” said Singleton.
“I’ve always said I wanted to bring the 100m crown back to America after Oscar had it from the World Champs in 2006 and the 2008 Paralympics and that’s what I’ve done in 2011.”
Affectionately referred to as ‘the fastest man with no legs’ due to his double leg amputation, it was the first time South African Pistorius has been beaten by Singleton.
“This wasn’t the one, I ran a hard race but Jerome was just better than me,” he said.
“Realistically though I have run three 100m races in four years, it’s not my event, I’ve still got the world record and I hope one day I can come back and take the crown back.”
Pistorius’ focus now shifts to his preferred 400m on Saturday, January 30.
In Australian results, Commonwealth Games gold medallist Simon Patmore was disqualified for false starting in the T46 100m. After much build up, the 23-year-old was unable to build on his 200m bronze medal two days ago.
Understandably disappointed, Patmore recognises the learning curve the result provides.
“Obviously this wasn’t what I wanted, I’ve worked so hard to get here but that’s sport and it’s a harsh learning curve,” Patmore said.
“I’m in disbelief to be honest; I can’t believe I did that.”
Joining Patmore on track, T46 800m runner Michael Roeger clocked 1:55.54 to break the Australian record by 0.3 seconds.
Placing 4th overall, the South Australian born, AIS trained athlete is coached by Iryna Dvoskina and is a two-time Australian champion (2008, 2010) in the event.
Boasting five gold medals, three silver and four bronze, Australia has closed out day five in Christchurch with 12 medals.
Competition will continue tomorrow, with vision impaired world championships bronze medallist Jessica Gallagher set to return to the field in the F13 long jump.
On track, T53 800m world champion Richard Colman will look to conquer the one lap race, whilst the men’s T35-38 4x100m relay team will race for gold.
Watch the latest Australian action by visiting the Australian Paralympic Committee’s YouTube Channel.