Johnson In Fast Start

In his 1996 outdoor debut, Michael Johnson put up the fastest time in the world this year and set a meet record in winning the 400 meters at the Drake Relays.

Johnson coasted to victory over a talented field despite tightening slightly in the final 50 meters, finishing in 44.41 seconds. It was Johnson’s 52nd straight victory in a 400 final, and while it was his slowest opening race since 1991, he was satisfied.