Congratulations to Kim Batten! She is on her way to Sydney.
Tallahassee resident Kim Batten finished second (54.70) in the 400 meter hurdles to secure a spot on the US Olympic team for the second straight time. Batten is the world record holder in the event (52.61) but has had a problem with a nerve in her big toe that has kept her from running and training. She received treatment from a local chiropractor (no name given) and now says she is pain free. She was quoted as saying the prelims were only her second race in over a year. Sandra Glover won the event in a time of 53.33 and Tonya Buford-Bailey rounded out the team by finishing third in 54.80.
Career Highlights: 1995 World champion; 1996 Olympic silver medalist; 1997 World bronze medalist; 6-time U.S. Outdoor champion; 1995 Pan Am champion; 1998 World Cup bronze medalist; World 400mH record holder (52.61).