Rodgers runs to first national title, wins 100 meters at U.S. championships

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Mike Rodgers had already overcome a broken ankle and two torn ligaments in his right ankle this year. A change of direction in the 100-meter final was much easier to handle.

Running into a headwind, Rodgers won his first American title Friday night when he edged Ryan Bailey at the finish in the U.S. Outdoor Track and Field Championships.

Rodgers finished in 10.09 seconds, well off his fastest times. Still, it sets the stage for a showdown against fellow Americans Justin Gatlin and Tyson Gay next month in Paris. Both Gatlin and Gay skipped the U.S. championships this year.

Former Washington State standout Bernard Lagat won the 5,000 in 13:31.41, and Molly Huddle took the women’s race in 15:01.56.

Tianna Bartoletta won the women’s 100 that was depleted slightly when one of the favorites, Tori Bowie, pulled out following the semifinals.

Bartoletta had earlier set the fastest time by an American this season with her time of 10.92. That mark stood for about 5 minutes because Bowie, running in the second heat, ran a 10.91.

No one was close to that mark in the final. Bartoletta ran an 11.15, Barbara Pierre was second while Lekeisha Lawson was third.