Instant Analysis - Reebok Grand Prix

It was anything but boring. The 2009 Reebok Grand Prix fielded a hot group of athletes and today’s meet exceeded expectations in terms of performance and entertainment value.

The most impressive, dominant performance is that of Tyson Gay’s legal 19.58 second at 200 meters.

Watch out! The former Arkansas sprinter sent a message to Usain Bolt and all other contenders that a World Championship title will go through him. This race speaks volumes to Gay’s mental strength, training and coaching in order to bypass the pressures and naysayers in order to get back on top of the leader board. Gay ran one of the best turns in history, on his way to putting down one of the greatest all-time 200 meter performances.

Allyson Felix continues to make believers out of those thinking that she should content at the 200 and 400 meters at the World Championship, assuming the schedules allows. While it is rare to see Felix behind coming off the final turn, Felix showed the steady hand of veteran to win an incredible come from behind victory against the Olympic bronze medalist.

Is Michael Rogers running out of the shadow of big name U.S. sprinters? I think Rogers 9.93 (wind-aided) is certainly a move in the right direction after winning over Asafa Powell, Darvis Patton and Richard Thompson. But it’s all about consistency, so he certainly adds even more flavor to the U.S. men’s 100 meter field going into the U.S. Outdoor Championships.

She is establishing herself the runner to beat in the 100 meters. Carmelita Jeter is on a tear, winning the 100m in 10.85, setting another personal best time that is tops in the world. Right now, she is the hottest sprinter on the planet.

It’s a pleasure to see a world class distance race take place on U.S. Bernard Lagat and Micah Kogo dueled before Kogo setting the fastest time ever run in this country with 13:02.90. More such performances are needed take place on the Visa Championship Series.

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