Ivorian sprint star Marie-Josée Ta Lou won the 150m race at the Manchester City Games on Friday, beating American Allyson Felix who finished second.
Ta Lou recorded a 16.60 seconds finish, 0.12 seconds faster than Felix, while Britain’s Bianca Williams came third with 17.09s.
The Ivorian, who won 100m and 200m silver at last year’s world championships, ran the seventh fastest 150m time ever on a straight track.
“Obviously she is a fabulous starter in tip-top shape,” Felix said, commending Ta Lou after the race.
The Manchester Games, officially known as the Arcadis Great CityGames, opened on Friday to conclude on Sunday May 20.
Ta Lou claimed silver medal last March in the women’s 60m at World Indoor Athletics Championships in Birmingham, finishing behind compatriot Murielle Ahoure who clinched her first career gold medal on the night.