Justin Gatlin, Usain Bolt on course for showdown in 100 meters at worlds

Who would bet against Usain Bolt in the 100-meter final at the world championships? Looks like lots of folks. Believe it or not, Justin Gatlin became the favorite in the London betting parlors after his scorching time of 9.83 seconds in the first round in Beijing on Saturday. Gatlin insisted he wasn’t sending any message to Bolt. He’s just running that fast these days. And Bolt is working his way back up to speed – though tuneup time is over with the semifinals and final set for today. In his heat on Saturday, the Jamaican had a mediocre start and his technique early in the race appeared a little ragged. Still, he won in 9.96. – Associated Press