Kirani James Trips and Falls, 2011 NCAA 400m Indoor Champs Video

It happens to the best of us.

Kirani James was the clear favorite to win the 2011 NCAA Indoor Championships 400 meters, with his 44.80 performance two weeks ago.

With a winning time of 45.33 in Section 1 of the 2 Section finals, Kirani James and Tabarie Henry knew this was the time to beat.

I have to give Tabarie Henry full credit as he runs a spectacular first 150 meters.  Awesome.  You have to get out hard.

As Kirani James tries to cut in at the bell lap, his long strides hits Tabarie Henry’s knee then tumbles and falls to the ground.

The spill also slows down Henry to a 46.44, which gave a net result of 4th place or 5 points.

This is why I hate the 2 section format.  This was not a fair final.  The first person who crosses the line should be declared the winner.  I understand you need to have 8 places to finish for scoring, but it doesn’t mean I like it.  The fall clearly affected the outcome of Tabarie Henry’s race.

The men’s 200m was even worse!  Both Final sections had a winning time of 20.41 with 0.002 separating the two performances.  You might as well draw straws or let them deal cards to choose the eventual winner.

Here is the video of the Section 2 race with Kirani James tripping and falling at the 2011 NCAA 400m Indoor Championships.

Results: