American quarter-miler Jacory PATTERSON produced a sensational comeback to clinch his first-ever Diamond League victory in the men’s 400m at the Rabat Diamond League meeting on Sunday night.
In a race filled with drama and world-class talent, Patterson surged past long-time leader Zakithi Nene of South Africa in the dying moments to win in a time of 44.37 seconds . That was just 0.04 seconds shy of the meeting record.
Nene, who had dominated the race from the gun, looked set to secure a memorable win after opening a significant lead heading into the final turn. However, Patterson, who has been in remarkable form this season. This includes a sub-44 run earlier in the year—channeled a powerful kick reminiscent of Olympic champion Quincy Hall.
He stormed from lane seven to seal victory with 25 metres to go. Nene settled for second place in 44.46, while Hall, still finding his rhythm after a disappointing outing in China, finished third in 44.90.
The race also featured a strong performance from Bryce Deadmon of the USA, who came in fourth at 44.97. He narrowly missing the podium. Canada’s Christopher Morales Williams followed in fifth (45.16). He came ahead of Johnnie Blockburger (45.55), Leungo Scotch (45.89), and Morocco’s Walid el Boussiri (46.47).
Moreover, there was heartbreak for Botswana’s Bayapo Ndori, the Doha Diamond League winner, who pulled up early in the race and failed to finish. Fans will be hoping the injury isn’t serious as the season heads into a crucial phase.
400m Men Rabat Diamond League
- Jacory Patterson (44.37)
2. Zakithi Nene (44.46)
3. Quincy Hall (44.90)
4. Bryce Deadmon (44.97)
5. Christopher Morales Williams (45.16)
6. Johnnie Blockburger (45.55)
7. Leungo Scotch (45.89)
8. Walid el Boussiri (46.47)
DNF. Bayapo Ndori
