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Pompey expresses elation over Berlin performance
Says she was “energised” with new AAG vision
By Edison Jefford
Guyana’s 400m record holder Aliann Pompey expressed elation yesterday after setting a new Personal Best (PB) time over the distance at the ongoing 12th IAAF World Athletics Championships in Berlin, Germany.
“I’m happy I ran a PB, but I felt that was a given. I knew I would have to run a personal best in order to make the finals. That was my goal; just to make that final. I still think I can run faster,” Pompey told Kaieteur Sport.
Aliann Pompey in Berlin
The Guyanese 2002 Commonwealth gold medalist ran 50.71 seconds in the semis, which narrowly placed her outside the final. The time was better than her previous 50.90 record this year after she ran 50.93 in Beijing last year.
“I will do a few meets later in the season and then take a break. Marian (Burnett) did well making it to the semi-finals, and I’m proud of Adam’s (Harris) showing at his first World Champs. I’m happy for my team,” she said via email.
Burnett was ousted in the 800m semis while Harris did not make it to the quarter-finals of the high-profile meet in the Men 100m. The Guyanese trio had complained about being abandoned in another section of the print media.
Pompey said that she spoke with Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) President Colin Boyce before the meet and was and was “energised” with his vision. She indicated that he will accomplish a lot if his vision is realized.
“We spoke briefly about his vision for the organisation and I was a bit energised by it. I wish him success because I think athletics for Guyana would be a wonderful thing if he achieves all that he’s setting out to do,” Pompey said.
“I wish he was able to make it to Berlin but nevertheless, I thank him for his kind words.
I’d like to thank the GOA (Guyana Olympic Association) for their support in my season when I was experiencing some difficulties,” she added.
In addition, the national record holder thanked her coach Joe Ryan, team leader, Andrew Harry and teammates. “Thanks to everyone that has written us in support for their words of encouragement and anonymous inspiration,” Pompey said.
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