Christophe ran an epic leg in the World Relays 4 x 200 last night--especially impressive given that he, like other European runners, hasn't started his season yet, and so is far behind the Caribbeans and Americans in getting into race shape.
The TV coverage and replay is awful, partly owing to the massive staggers, partly due to the idiotic decision to cut to close ups of US runners which make it impossible to see the rest of the field. This is what's clear: Christophe is running the second leg. Prior to the race the announcers mentioned that the French put him in that leg to go against the heavy wind. Christophe is one of the last runners to get the baton. I was very disappointed to see the US and Jamaican guys start off so far ahead of him. Owing to the stagger, you couldn't see him after the first few strides, but the announcers commented that the French were in real trouble. Next thing you know, there is Christophe, handing the baton to Pessoneaux in first place.
Man, I wish we could see his run. It must have been ridiculous. The announcers were shocked to see the French inexplicably in the lead and quickly commented on LeMaitre's leg. Oh, and FWIW, in the shock of the evening, Pessoneaux held on, and the French remained in first place going into the final leg. At that point, unfortunately, they passed it to Bassaw who relinquished the lead to Jamaica.
One other note, LeMaitre is considering changing his training base. He doesn't have indoor facilities in Aix, and he's been getting behind every winter, unable to practice his starts.
Very excited to see Christophe showing some serious speed again.