Taylor beats seniors again, finally dips below 45 seconds

Eighteen-year-old Christopher Taylor has dipped below 45 seconds in the 400 metres for the first time ever and, in so doing, obliterated the national junior record of 44.93 seconds set by Akeem Bloomfield.

He ran 44.88 seconds yesterday, June 24, at the JAAA Supreme Ventures Limited National Junior and Senior Championships at the National Stadium.

Taylor could have competed in the junior category, but he opted to clash with his seniors. He won.

Demish Gaye finished second in 45.23 seconds while Fitzroy Dunkley was third in 45.77 seconds.

Javon Francis, who seemingly was injured in the semis, did not show up for the final.

The country’s two fastest men so far this year over the 400 metres – Akeem Bloomfield and Nathon Allen – did not participate at the national trials. Bloomfield ran 43.94 seconds and Nathon Allen 44.13. Both men attend Auburn University, United States.

Christopher Taylor participates in a previous event. PHOTO CREDIT:

Taylor, who still attends Calabar High School, in recent times, has been developing a reputation for beating more senior athletes.

Last month, he won the 200 metres at the Jamaica International Invitational IWC Meet, beating former 400-metre Olympic champion Lashawn Merritt from the United States. Taylor ran 20.49 seconds ahead of Merritt’s 20.60. Anaso Jobodwana from South Africa was third.

By Horace Mills

WE also do obituaries, advertisement, and special coverage of funerals, birthday parties, weddings, and other milestones. Call or WhatsApp us at 876-305-4574 or emaail us at jamaicabeaconnews@gmail.com.