Segway
knocks Bolt off his stride at the Bird's Nest
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[August 29, 2015]
BEIJING (Reuters) - A television
cameraman and his Segway succeeded in doing what none of Usain Bolt's
rivals could in the 200 meters final at world championships on Thursday
-- knock the Jamaican off his stride, and his feet, during his lap of
honor.
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Bolt was taking the plaudits of the crowd after winning his fourth
straight 200 meters world crown when the wheel of the cameraman's
Segway caught a trackside rail and flipped over, sending man and
machine into the barefooted sprinter.
The 29-year-old Olympic champion, who had his back to the man, was
knocked to the ground and sustained a few minor cuts.
He was not about to let the accident ruin his celebrations after
beating American rival Justin Gatlin to a sprint title for the
second time in five days, however.
"I did not hit a cameraman. He took me out," said Bolt, who held on
to his track spikes with his right hand as he did a backward roll to
get back onto his feet.
"The rumor I am trying to start right now is Justin Gatlin paid
him."
Silver medalist Gatlin, sat next to Bolt at the post-race news
conference, quipped ruefully: "I want my money back."
Bolt, who is hoping to run for a third gold in the 4x100m relay at
the weekend, joked that he might have to consider taking out
insurance after the incident.
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"I probably should have my legs insured. It was pretty scary when it
happened," he added.
"Accidents happen. I have a few cuts but it is nothing that I have
never done to myself in training. I will be alright."
(Reporting by Nick Mulvenney, editing by Pritha Sarkar)
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