TrackFocus.com’s picks for the best US performers at the 2010 Aviva London Grand Prix
10. Marshavet Myers (Women’s 100 meters)
After finishing first last weekend in Lucerne, Myers continued her winning streak by taking the title in London. She dropped below 11 seconds again in the prelims and in the final beat out Carmelita Jeter and Blessing Okabare.
Video: Myers upsets Jeter in 100m - from Universal Sports
9. Andrew Wheating (800 meters)
The rising star of US middle distance running did not disappoint in his last European race of the summer. Running aggressively from the gun, Wheating kept Kaki in his sights, Symmonds in the rearview and finished only a stride or two outside of victory. The future looks bright for this ‘massive lad’ as our commentators across like the pond like to call him.
8. Kara Patterson (Javelin)
Though she lost by 9 centimeters, Kara Patterson’s streak of meet in which she’s thrown over 200 feet was extended to seven. According to Track and Field News, Patterson has 14 of the 22 top throws in the US all-time.
7. Bershawn Jackson (400m Hurdles)
With Kerron Clement sidelined the rest of the season with a ‘mysterious illness’, Batman has built up a handsome lead in the Diamond League standings. At Crystal Palace, Jackson was able to secured a very hard fought victory against Javier Culson of Puerto Rico.
6. Bernard Lagat (3000 meters)
Rain drops, a European 5k/10k Champion and a partison UK crowd couldn’t stop Bernard Lagat from claiming victory. After the race, Bernard Lagat talked to Ryan Fenton of Flotrack about his transition from miler to 5000 meter runner.
5. Jeremy Wariner (400 meters)
World-leader Jermaine Gonzales and Ricardo Chambers got out fast, but Wariner bided his time the first 200 meters. Running strong off of turn four and down the homestretch, the 2004 Olympic champion was able to keep his 2010 Diamond League unbeaten streak alive.
Video: Jeremy Wariner wins 400m Diamond League - from Universal Sports
4. David Oliver (110m high hurdles)
Just win baby. David Oliver tied the meeting record and looked dominant on his way to victory. The one question remains in the men’s high hurdles: Will world record holder Dayron Robles show up to race Oliver this summer?
3. Allyson Felix (200m, 400m)
Bianca Knight got a fast start, but was unable to truly challenge as Allyson Felix cruised to victory in the 200 meters. Saturday’s 400m finals had a bit more drama, with Felix holding off a late charging Tatyana Firova. We hope Felix’s rival, Veronica Campbell-Brown, starts receiving some Diamond League invites, so we can get another show down at 200 meters this summer. As for Felix, this looks like one of her first steps toward a double in London 2012.
Video: Allyson Felix wins 3rd 400m in Diamond League - from Universal Sports
2. Leo Manzano (Mile)
Manzano’s had his ups and downs this season, but his performance in London was a major up. Manzano kicked his way to a 3 second personal best and knocked Jim Ryun out of the US top 10 all-time. He now sits as the #9 US miler of all-time. Manzano talked with Ryan Fenton of Flotrack about the pressure he’s felt this outdoor season.
1. Tyson Gay (100 meters)
World-leading 9.78 under cool conditions into a headwind. Usain who?
Also of note: Molly Huddle (5000 meters 14:55); Reese Hoffa (Shot Put: 1st, ends Cantwell’s streak); Jesse Williams (High Jump: 2nd)
