SHANGHAI, China (AP) — Jamaica’s Usain Bolt snatched victory in the 200 meters at the Diamond League meet in Shanghai on Sunday with a time of 19.76 seconds, his second win in as many races this season.
The reigning world and Olympic champion over 100 and 200 meters was never tested, finishing out in relaxed style ahead of Americans Angelo Taylor, who finished in 20.34 seconds, and Ryan Bailey with a time of 20.43 seconds.
“It was a good run. The feeling was good but it was not easy,” Bolt said. “I am not in the best of shape, but I enjoyed it.”
The win builds on an excellent start to Bolt’s season that began with a year’s best 9.86-second win in the 100 meters on Wednesday at Daegu in South Korea.
Bolt said he doesn’t feel under pressure to set new marks, citing this season’s lack of an Olympics or world championship to up the stakes. Bolt said rival Tyson Gay of the United States should feel free to chase his record.
“This year I said I’m not going to chase any records,” Bolt said. “It doesn’t matter if I get beaten this season, because it’s the offseason.
“If Tyson decides that he wants to break a record, fine with me. If he wants to chase them down, I have no problem with that. I’m just going to run and stay unbeaten this season. I’m looking forward to the clashes.”
David Oliver of the United States ran a season-best 12.99 on the way to victory in the 110 meter hurdles, leaving hometown hero and former world record holder Liu Xiang trailing in third (13.40), just behind fellow Chinese Shi Dongpeng (13.39).
“It was a pretty decent result,” said Liu, who continues to fight a nagging Achilles’ tendon injury that forced him to dramatically withdraw from the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games at the last minute.
“I think it’s great that I’m able to maintain this level,” Liu said. “I’m not feeling too good about the foot. I have to fight against the pain, which is no small challenge.”
Carmelita Jeter of the United States claimed victory in the women’s 100 meters with a time of 11.09 seconds, surging past Jamaica’s Shelly-Ann Fraser (11.29) and Chandra Sturrup of the Bahamas (11.38).