Johnson Sprints To World Best In First 200 Of ‘97

Same old Michael Johnson.

Nearly nine months after setting the world record in the 200 meters at the Atlanta Olympics, Johnson ran his first 200 of 1997 in the Drake Relays on Saturday at Des Moines, Iowa.

All he did was break the meet record and run the fastest time in the world this year, cracking off a 20.05-second clocking to beat Olympic finalist Obadele Thompson and five other runners.

Ato Boldon’s 20.09 was the previous best this year.

“It felt good,” Johnson said. “I didn’t come in expecting any particular time, so I’m pleased with my time.”