Qatar's Samba qualifies to 400m hurdles Final
DOHA, September 29, 2019 - Qatar's Abderrahman Samba comfortably moved into the final of the 400m hurdles at the IAAF World Athletics Championships at Khalifa International Stadium in Doha on Saturday.
In the semifinal third heat, Samba clocked 48.72 to come second behind Benjamin Rai of the US, who finished in 48.52.
"So far I am enjoying these championships and the atmosphere," said Samba. "It is great to run here in front of my home crowd. I am feeling great support and there is no pressure."
Earlier, Karsten Warholm of Norway also entered the final with a comfortable win in the second heat. Warholm, a favourite along with Rai and Samba, clocked 48.28 despite easing considerably towards the end.
Earlier, Abubaker Haydar Abdalla moved into the semifinals of 800m with an impressive show.
The 23-year-old Qatari took off right from the start and even though Canadian Brandon McBride 1:45.96 pipped him to the pole Abdalla finished second in 1:46.11.
It's a great feeling to be at home competing in front of your own crowd," said Abdallah.
"Your friends and family are here to cheer you on and it gives you more motivation. We have some great athletes in our team — (Mutaz Essa) Barshim, Samba, (Abdalelah) Haroun and I am proud to be a part of that," he said.
Jamal Hairane also put in an impressive performance in another heat but his 1:46.40 was not good enough to fetch him a place in the semifinals.
“I feel good, I am proud to put my country's name in the competition. I am so proud to be here, it is a pleasure for me," said Hairane.
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