McLeod Takes Gold in Hurdles; Eaton to Defend Decathlon Title

McLeod takes gold in hurdles; Allen fifth

RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) — Omar McLeod converted his season dominance of the 110-meter hurdles into an Olympic gold medal, a first for Jamaica in the event.

McLeod, the world indoor champion, gained the lead quickly and pulled away as he won in 13.05 seconds on Tuesday night.

Cuban-born Orlando Ortega of Spain took silver in 13.17 seconds and Dimitri Bascou of France won bronze in 13.24. University of Oregon runner Devon Allen finished fifth while former Duck Johnathan Cabral finished sixth.

The Jamaicans have dominated the men's 100-meter and 200-meter titles in the last decade, but had never previously produced a male athlete who converted that raw pace into an Olympic title over the sprint hurdles.

Eaton looking to defend decathlon title in Rio

RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) — Ashton Eaton of Oregon today kicks off the defense of his Olympic decathlon title. He's trying to become the first to win back to back decathlon titles since Daley Thompson of Britain in 1980 and 1984.

In other track and field action in Rio, expect a good showdown between Dafne Schippers of the Netherlands and Tori Bowie of the U.S. in the 200 meters. Bowie is coming off a silver in the 100. Oregon's Deajah Stevens also made the finals field.

The American women are thinking sweep in the 100. This despite world record holder Keni Harrison not even making the team at trials. It's that deep.

And then, of course, there's Usain Bolt as he takes another step toward another sweep in the sprints. The Jamaican was 3 for 3 in Beijing and again in London. And so far he's 1 for 1 in Rio. The 200 semifinals are this evening.