#Glasgow2014: McCann in to 100m Hurdles Final

Western Australian Shannon McCann has qualified for the final of the women’s 100m hurdles in what will be one of the most anticipated events of the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games.

McCann posted a time of 13.34 to finish second in heat three, earning automatic qualification for tomorrow morning’s race, run from 5.10am Perth time alongside fellow Australians Michelle Jenneke and fastest qualifier Sally Pearson.

In Pearson, the race takes on greater significance. Dragged into a controversy surrounding the suspension of Athletics Australia head coach Eric Hollingsworth, the eyes of Commonwealth were locked on Pearson for a response.

And a response they got. Having declined to comment on the issue ahead of the race, Pearson let her running do the talking, clocking 12.69 in heat two to easily record the fastest time for the final.

In the post race interview, Pearson confirmed the saga had been a distraction, but avoided specifically commenting on the statement released independently by Hollingsworth criticising the Olympic champion’s decision to compete a warm up event in London, rather than attending a compulsory Athletics Australia team camp. (Pearson’s interview can be viewed here).

McCann will race from lane seven, with Pearson in lane four. Pearson’s major challenger for gold in the Glasgow final, will come from lanes five (Tiffany Porter) and three (Angela Whyte) whilst McCann will be looking for another fast start to put herself in medal contention.