ZURICH (AP) β Dafne Schippers successfully started her European Championships week on Tuesday by cruising into the semifinals of the 100 meters, the first of three titles the Dutchwoman is chasing.
Despite a bad start and a leisurely finish, she crossed in 11.10 seconds, second only to Myriam Soumare’s 11.03. Soumare is expected to be Schippers’ toughest opponent for Wednesday’s title.
Defending champion Ivet Lalova was third-fastest in 11.17.
Schippers, who is looking for a sprint triple in the 100, 200 and team relay, says she “had to put on the turbo for a little while and relax afterward.”
