Kyron McMaster runs to victory in the 400-metre hurdles during the Diamond League Meet in Zurich, Switzerland last Thursday.

Last Thursday, Virgin Islands 400-metre hurdler Kyron McMaster took first place at the Diamond League Meet in Zurich, Switzerland.

 

Mr. McMaster defeated the reigning World Champion Karsten Warholm, of Norway, with a time of 48.07 seconds. Mr. Warlholm finished in 48.22.”

Kyron McMaster runs to victory in the 400-metre hurdles during the Diamond League Meet in Zurich, Switzerland last Thursday.
Mr. McMaster now ranks ninth in the world.

“I felt I was prepared for the race,” Mr. McMaster said. “Of course I had the jitters, but I have been to a couple of Diamond Leagues and to international events. So I know how to channel that jitter energy to help me.”

The VI hurdler faced rivals, Kerron Clement and Bershawn Jackson, of the United. Mr. Clement finished fourth in 49.20 seconds and Karien Hussein, of Switzerland, finished third in 48.45 seconds.

“I offer sincere congratulations to Kyron on this significant achievement,” Education and Culture Minister Myron Walwyn said. “I know I speak for all Virgin Islanders when I say we are extremely proud of him. He stands to have an outstanding athletic career.”

He added, “Our people are doing excellent things. Kyron, Chantel (Malone) and all the other fine athletes are bringing greater prominence to our country.”

Mr. McMaster made his Diamond League debut at the Muller Anniversary Games at London Olympic Stadium on July 9, 2017 where he placed second in the 400-metre hurdles.

In July, 2016, Mr. McMaster won the territory’s first medal in its history at the IAAF World Junior Championships when he took the bronze in Bydgoszcz, Poland. The VI has been participating in IAAF World Junior competition since 1986.

“It feels good,” Mr. McMaster said. “I have a title now.”

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