USA Track & Field – News – Taylor, Richards-Ross shine as Team USA competes at Aviva Grand Prix

LONDON – Christian Taylor recorded a big personal best in the triple jump while Sanya Richards-Ross continues to drive toward another World Championship in the 400 meters as Team USA grabbed a total of seven event championships during the final day of the Diamond League Aviva London Grand Prix Saturday.

Taylor’s winning jump of 17.68m/58-0.25 places his name among the elite in the world as Team USA continues to prepare for the 2011 World Outdoor Track & Field Championships August 27-September 4 in Daegu, South Korea. Richards-Ross, the reigning World Champion and American record holder in the 400m, recorded a season-best time of 49.66 to win her event.

Team USA also picked up wins Saturday from Walter Dix in the 200m (20.16), Leonel Manzano in the mile (3:51.24), Carmelita Jeter in the 100m (10.93), Laura Fleshman in the 5,000m (15:00.57) along with winning the men’s 4x100m (38.23).

The Americans also showed depth at the Aviva London Grand Prix, landing another five athletes in the top three of their events. That list includes: Shannon Rowbury, who placed third in the 1,500m (4:05.73); Jesse Williams, who finished second in the high jump (2.34m/7-8); Michael Tinsley, who placed second in the 400m hurdles (48.90); Bernard Lagat, who placed second in the mile (3:51.38) and Danielle Carruthers, who finished second in the 100m hurdles (12.67).

Jared Slinde
Communications Manager
USA Track & Field