BEIJING, China, CMC – The youngest competitor in the finals of the 400 metres of the World Championships, Trinidad and Tobago’s Machel Cedenio, says he would not be intimidated when he takes on a high quality field this morning. Cedenio, 19, will face Olympic champion Kirani James of Grenada who advanced with the second fastest time and world leader and African record holder Isaac Makwala of Botswana who progressed to the finals with the fastest time of 44.11.
The Trinidadian quarter miler will also be competing against reigning world champion Lashawn Merritt and Wayde Van Niekerk, the only man to beat James this season. “I am just going into the final to have fun, so I am taking it step by step,” said Cedenio. “I thank God for bringing me through the rounds and you know it is a good step with Olympic next year. I just thank God that I am a world finalist right now”.
Cedenio finished third in his semifinal on Monday to progress as one of two fastest losers from the three semifinals. The 400 metres final is due to start at 9.25 AM Eastern Caribbean time today. “The extra day’s rest will help in the recovery of my muscles and mentally prepare me for the finals,” he said.
“Depending on the lane I get, we will see. Right now I am just grateful to be in the final. No matter what lane as we will all run 400 metres.”
