The time draws nigh, and in only a matter of hours, there will be no doubt about who the reigning kings and queens of the Olympics sprint races will be. Stay tuned to Chat-Bout for down-to-the-minute updates on Jamaica's athletes' and points standings.

Up to the Minute Standings

Jamaicans all over the world must have felt refreshed to see their star athletes take the heats with no trouble at all. As expected, Jamaica's men's 100 metre entrants all cruised to easy wins over their competition.

Usain Bolt was first up in Heat 1, literally jogging to a relaxed 10.20second win over his competitors. Asafa Powell was next in Heat 2, exerting just enough energy to keep his hundredth of a second lead (10.16seconds) over Kim Collins, the St. Kitts and Nevis runner who could only manage second place in 10.17seconds. Michael Frater also claimed victory in Heat 4, with a 10.15second victory, and an extensive lead over the Heat's second place qualifier, Canadian Pierre Brown (10.22s).

The crowd reaction indicated that Jamaica was a clear favourite in the event. In fact, this year's Men's 100m promises to be a race seasoned with many Caribbean flavours. Apart from Jamaican favourites, Antigua and Barbuda's Daniel Bailey (second, Heat 1, 10.24s), Cuba's Henry Vizcaino (fourth, Heat 1, 10.28s) and Barbados' Andrew Hinds (fifth, Heat 3, 10.35s) also advanced to the second round of the Olympics heats.

Trinidad sent out a fine crop of athletes as well, with Richard Thompson taking command of Heat 3 in 10.24 seconds. Fellow countryman Darell Brown placed third in Heat 4 (10.22s), while Marc Burns ran an unimpressive but qualifying 10.46s to place second in the ninth heat. Bahamas' Derrick Atkins was a clear winner in Heat 8, with a time of 10.28s.

Tyson

Chat-Bout Xtra: A marvellous brew of Trini, Jamaican and Bahamian and yes, even US stars awaits one and all in this year's men's 100m finals on Saturday August 16. What do you say? Will it be strictly Caribbean business?

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