Pugh's Run at U.S. Nationals Ends

June 23, 2007

INDIANAPOLIS - The University of Oklahoma track and field season came to a close Saturday at the U.S. Outdoor Track and Field Championships at Michael A. Carroll Stadium.

Marcus Pugh finished 26th overall in the men's 200-meter dash, which was plagued by strong headwinds that resulted in slower than expected times.

"I had a good start and caught up in the turn quicker than I expected," Pugh, who started in lane two, said. "But once I got on the straightaway, that wind was just too much to overcome.

"I'll work a lot on my strength this summer and, hopefully, will be in better shape next year."

Pugh (21.66), one of seven collegians in the field, ran sixth in his heat that included some of the fastest men on the planet. Pugh's heat was won by Jeremy Wariner (20.94). Xavier Carter (21.02), Kelly Willie (21.02), Bernard Williams (21.17) and Trell Kimmons (21.43) were second through fifth in the race that had a 2.2 meters per second headwind.

Tyson Gay, who won the men's 100-meter final Friday night, was the preliminary leader at 20.66. The top 18 finishers moved on to Sunday's semifinal round.

Saturday saw several surprises as some of the United States' best athletes failed to qualify for the World Championships team.

In the women's 400-meter dash, Dee Dee Trotter (49.64) took first above heavy favorite and American record holder Sanya Richards (50.68), who finished fourth.

NCAA champion Natasha Hastings of South Carolina (49.84) was second.

Angelo Taylor (44.05) and LaShawn Merritt (44.06) raced 1-2, respectively, in a photo finish in the men's 400.

Reese Hoffa won the men's shot put with a best throw of 70 feet, 5.25 inches (21.47 meters).

World leader Christian Cantwell was denied a trip to the World Championships after placing fifth. Cantwell's fourth attempt would have placed second, but the official ruled a toe foul.

Cantwell's protest of the decision was denied.

James Carter (47.72) defeated Kerron Clement (47.80) for the men's 400-meter hurdles title.

Treniere Clement (4:07.04) used a late kick over the final 100 meters to defend her national women's 1500-meter run title.

Virginia Powell (12.63) defended her U.S. title in the women's 100-meter hurdles.

The U.S. Championships conclude Sunday, June 24. NBC will broadcast the final day live beginning at 12 p.m.

University of Oklahoma Athletics

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