Girls' 200m final report - Donetsk 2013

WRITTEN FOR THE IAAF WEBSITE

Sweden’s Irene Ekelund stormed to a 22.92 lifetime best and championship record to more than make amends for finishing fifth in the 100m final in Donetsk, Ukraine last Thursday (11).

The 17-year-old claimed her nation’s first ever medal in this event in the 14-year history of this championship, en route to shooting to the top of the world youth list and eighth on the all-time rankings.

Following another impressive world youth-leading 23.02 in the semi-final stage on Saturday (13), the Swede captured gold courtesy of a strong start and an inspired home-straight acceleration.

Clocking a 23.13 personal best, Angela Tenorio claimed Ecuador’s first ever medal in this event during the eight editions of this championship.

The 17-year-old’s silver medal over the half-lap follows her bronze in the 100m three days ago.

The pre-event favourite for both the 100m and 200m, USA’s Ariana Washington was disappointed to miss out on the gold again – following her third place finish in the 100m – as she came home in 23.20 to take the bronze medal.

The 16-year-old ran a 23.18 lifetime best in May but struggled to live up to expectations this week.

Nevertheless, her medal represents USA’s eighth medal in this event in this championship dating back to 1999 with two gold, three silver and now three bronze medals in their collection.

Further back in fourth, Washington’s team-mate, Hannah Cunliffe recorded a 23.44 personal best, whilst Germany’s Gina Luckenkemper finished fifth in 23.53.