BY AYODELE ODUMADE AT THE LONDON STADIUM

African Athletes have put themselves in a great position to win medals after day 3 of the World Athletics Championships here in London. Olympic Champion and World Record holder Wayde Van Niekerk won his 400m semi final in 44.22secs.   to qualify for the final.  He said: “Every time we get on the track it seems as though we go to break 44 seconds. It is good competition but it just means I always have to be on my game.

On change of heat draw he said: “Whoever changed it, thank you. I would have had to run a 43.8 to have qualified.

“I was surprised [about the change as well] as well. It didn’t come from the South African team, not at all. 

“I’m just trying to get through the rounds as fast as I can and hope for the best.”

Baboloki Thebo of Botswana came second in 44.33s and also qualified.

Van Niekerk’s biggest challenge in the final is likely to come from Isaac Makwala who won his own heat in 44.30s.  The final will take place on Tuesday.

Meanwhile in the men’s 800 metres semi final, Nijel Amos came second in his heat in 1:46.29secs. He said: “It was a good race. I was just trying to save myself for the final. The conditions are good. I had a quick look at the others but I feel ready for the final.”

In the final heat Kipyegon Bett won in 1:45.02s while Mohammed Aman was second in 1:45.40s.