BUDAPEST, Hungary, CMC – Jamaican Shericka Jackson failed to reel in American nemesis Sha’Carri Richardson in a compelling final leg as the United States clinched gold in the women’s sprint relay in championship record time here Saturday.
On the penultimate day of the World Athletics Championship, Gabrielle Thomas reached Richardson before Shashalee Forbes handed over to Jackson, and the newly crowned 100 meters champion made that advantage count, holding off her rival to cross the time in a splendid 41.03.
Jamaica clocked a season-best 41.21 while Great Britain rounded out the podium with bronze in 41.97, also a season-best time.
Tamari Davis ensured the United States’ dominance on the first leg before Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce’s second leg put Jamaica in contention.
Forbes and Thomas then battled on the third leg, the latter inching ahead marginally to secure the US a vital lead, heading into the final stage.
Meanwhile, Jamaica’s team of Oblique Seville, Ackeem Blake, Ryiem Forde, and Rohan Watson mustered bronze in the men’s equivalent as the United States swept the marquee events.
Their team of Christian Coleman, Fred Kerley, Brandon Carnes, and Noah Lyles returned a world-leading time of 37.38 seconds, while Jamaica was timed at 37.76, the Italians sneaking in for silver in a season-best 37.62.
“I feel good [about the medal]. It means a lot to me and my family, coach, the whole of Jamaica, my teammates,” Forde said afterward.
“I think we did a tremendous job, so I’m thrilled right now [with a] bronze medal.”
He added: We’re happy, and I know Jamaica is sunny, and the coaches are delighted, and most people who are in support of Jamaica are so glad right now, so I feel perfect about that.”
The finals of the distance relays will headline Sunday’s final day.
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