Sprint Stars Advance to Semi-finals of National Championships

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The big names in the men’s and women’s 100 metres all had safe passages to the semi-finals at the JAAA National Championships at the National Stadium.

Bryan Levell stood out among the men with a smooth 9.99 seconds to win his heat and take the fastest time into Friday night’s semifinals.

Levell was the only sprinter to dip below 10 seconds.

Defending champion Kishane Thompson won his heat in 10.12 seconds. Oblique Seville, 10.12 seconds, and Ackeem Blake, 10.07 seconds, also won their heats.

Yohan Blake and Chris Taylor are also through.

On the women’s side defending champion Shericka Jackson leads the qualifiers after winning her quarter final in 11.20 seconds. Her MVP mate Tia Clayton was second fastest with 11.21 seconds.

Also making progress were Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, who won her heat in 11.33 seconds and Tina Clayton 11.27 seconds.

In the women’s 400 metres, Nickisha Pryce eased into the semi-finals with 50.68 seconds to win her heat. Stacey-Ann Williams was the next best with 51.13 seconds.

Also advancing were Dejanea Oakley and Shaquena Foote.

Olympic finallist Ackelia Smith won her third straight women’s long Jump title with a wind aided 6.81 meters.

Nationwide 90FM will have coverage of the championships with live commentary on the evening session starting on Friday with the semifinals of the women’s 100m at 6.30.