London Anniversary Games: Bolt back and Farah responds

Usain Bolt, the fastest man alive, made a return to form with victory in the men’s 100m at the London Anniversary Games Diamond League meeting at the Olympic Stadium.

Jamaican sensation Bolt, who holds the world record over both sprint distances, returned to the scene of his greatest triumph where he retained the Olympic titles three years ago, winning here again in 9.87 seconds from lane 4.

American rivals Justin Gatlin and Tyson Gay, plus fellow former drugs banned athlete Asafa Powell, all opted against competing in London, however, but that could not detract from Bolt laying down a marker that he is back after injury.

Mike Rodgers of the USA and Bolt’s compatriot Kemar Bailey-Cole finished ahead of British runner CJ Ujah.

Double world and Olympic long distance champion Mo Farah, meanwhile, put recent allegations about coach Alberto Salazar behind him by sprinting home over 3000m in a world lead time of 7:34.66.

Anguilla-born British talent Zharnel Hughes ran another personal best of 20.05 to take the men’s 200m ahead of American newcomer Dedric Dukes and Diamond League race leader Anaso Jobodwana of South Africa.

Jason Richardson snatched victory in a keenly fought men’s 110m hurdles, pipping Pascal Martinot-Lagarde on the line.

Reigning world women’s 400m champion Christine Ohuruogu, who is known for peaking at the perfect time, finished fourth in a high-class field in 52 seconds flat, with the race won by Natasha Hastings 50.24 ahead of fellow American runner Francena McCorory and the Jamaican contingent.

Over the hurdles, Czech Republic 400m star Zuzana Hejnova continued her comeback from injury with the world champion winning in 53.99. British hope Eilidh Child came fourth behind inconsistent American hurdler Georganne Moline and compatriot Cassandra Tate.

In the sprint over the obstacles, Olympic Heptathlon champion Jessica Ennis-Hill produced 12.79 and a fifth place finish, giving discipline expert Tiffany Porter a run for her money. The race belonged to the American contingent, who did a 1-2-3 with new face Jasmin Stowers the victor.