Michael Johnson Eyes Record in 200 After Dashing to a 20.02 in Brazil Meet
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SAO PAULO, Brazil — hael Johnson ran the fastest 200 meters in the world this year, clocking 20.02 seconds Sunday in the first Grand Prix track and field meet of the season.
Johnson’s time beat the previous best this year of 20.20 by Jimmy French run May 11 in Fayetteville, Fla. “I hope to establish a new record later this year. I am convinced I can do it,” said Johnson, ranked No. 1 in the world in the 200 and 400.
The record in the 200 is 19.72 by Italy’s Pietro Mennea.
Robson da Silva of Brazil won the 400 in 45.06. The only faster time in the world this year was Johnson’s 44.73 at the Drake Relays last month.
Gwen Torrence won the women’s 100 and 200. She ran the 100 in 11.22 seconds and the 200 in 22.60.
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