The South African 4 x 400 team set a new Seasons Best of 3:37.82 in their heat but failed to qualify for the final.


The quartet, which was entered as a last-minute invite from the IAAF, commenced with Justine Palframan who was fastest out of the blocks, but seventh at the changeover.
Gena Lofstrand was on the back straight when the Bahama’s athlete tripped the South African from behind. The gutsy athlete was put off balance, but managed to stay upright as Jamaican Amertil crashed to the ground.


The spirited KZN athlete regained rhythm and trying to make up ground before uneventful changes with first Ariane Nel, and then the anchor leg by hurdler Wenda Nel.
Bahamas never completed the race.

Jamaica took the line honors in 3;23.64 with Nigeria and Germany in second and third for the automatic qualification, while Poland and France from the first heat earned a place in the final for a 3:27.59.

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South Africa put in a protest and appeal as Lofstrand had been obstructed from behind. The appeal was rejected by the Jury of Appeal.

There are no more South Africans in action on Saturday although there will be substantial interest in the mens 4 x 100 where Usain Bolt will make his final London appearance and hope to win the final championship medal of his career.

On Sunday afternoon 15:20 Lebogang Shange will be looking for a further improvement in his 20km walk time which currently stands at 1:20:06 set last year in Adelaide.

Shange has made consistent improvement over recent years and should find the London weather to his advantage.
The walk course is held on the long straight Mall from Buckingham Palace towards Trafalgar Square and is sure to be surrounded by a vocal and motivating crowd.

In an innovative change to the traditional programme all four walks are being held on the one day with the 50km walks for men and women in the morning and the faster 20km walks in the afternoon.

Then South Africa will be hoping to close their campaign with a gold medal in the 800m from Caster Semenya in the evening session at 21:10 (RSA Time)

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