There was disappointment for Ireland’s Thomas Barr last night as he failed to advance to the final of the Men’s 400m Hurdles at the World Athletics Championships in Eugene, Oregon.
Barr finished fifth in his semi-final in a time of 50.08s as his wait to make his first world final continues.
The Waterford man who represents Ferrybank AC ran a strong first 300m before his stride pattern abandoned him after he came off hurdle eight. He struggled to regain his momentum and while known for being a fast finisher could not deliver on this occasion.
Speaking to Irish athletics journalist Cathal Dennehy after the race in Eugene, the 29-year-old said he “fell apart” in the race.
“I hate to leave a championships on this note,” Barr said.
"It’s back to the drawing board and see what we can do from here. 50 point, I can run that in my sleep, it just fell apart today. No excuses it just is what it is and hopefully aim to do better next time.”
Thomas Barr's season so far
Barr had not had an ideal build-up to the championships with the National Championships at the end of June being his only races since mid-May due to an Achilles injury. He lamented his lack of race practice which he believes affected him in the semi-final.
“I’m definitely lacking that race rhythm and race practice and that is very evident in what happened today. It is definitely the most disappointing performance I’ve ever put in at a major championships.”
The Irish record holder in the event who finished fourth at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games and won bronze at the 2018 European Championships in Berlin will now turn his attention to the upcoming Europeans in Munich next month.
Barr will be hoping to progress through the rounds and contest for a medal once again.
Andrew Coscoran also failed to make his 1500m final.
17 July 2022; Andrew Coscoran of Ireland dejected after competing in the men's 1500m semi-finals during day three of the World Athletics Championships at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon, USA. Photo by Sam Barnes/Sportsfile
The Balbriggan man was well off the pace in his semi-final finishing twelfth in 3.44.66. He will now also set his mind on the European Championships.
