Lightning Bolt set to strike twice

Bolt's main rival will likely be American Walter Dix, the bronze medallist in the 100m who beat defending Olympic champion Shawn Crawford at the US trials at 19.86sec and recorded a personal best of 19.69sec last season.

"I'm going to get ready for the 200m," said Dix after setting a personal best of 9.91sec in the 100m.

"I'm quite proud of the result but I know I have much more to do."

Crawford, who beat drugs-tainted compatriot Justin Gatlin to 200m gold in the Athens Games four years ago, has not shone on the international stage since, but has recently hit some good form.

American teammate Wallace Spearmon, who has won a 2005 silver and a 2007 bronze medal in the event and finished 0.04sec behind Dix and Crawford at the US trials, could also be among the contenders for a podium placing.

Among other potential rivals are Churandy Martina of the Dutch Antilles, who impressed in finishing fourth in the 100m at 9.93sec.

Martina said his performances in the 100m had given him heart.

"I improved my personal best three times and there's no better place to do that than right here."

Richard Thompson, the 100m silver medalist from Trinidad and Tobago, summed up the effect of trying to pursue Bolt in full flow.

"I could feel myself pulling away from the rest (of the field] and I could see him slowing down, but I'm still pumping to the line," he said.

The semifinals took place last night and the finals are scheduled tonight. Bolt finished first in his heat in 20.09 sec. Martina won his in 20.11 sec.

Editor:Wang Shuqin