Carson, Calif. – Five-time Olympic medalist Marion Jones shocked competitors and spectators alike at the U.S. Outdoor Track & Field Championships Friday night, withdrawing from the first heat of the 100 meters moments before the race was scheduled to start.
Jones, who has been the subject of speculation and innuendo for months as a result of the BALCO steroid scandal, was introduced by the track announcer and some in the crowd cheered her appearance on the track. Moments later the announcer said, “Apparently Marion Jones has scratched out of Lane 2,” and the crowd gasped.
There was no immediate explanation for Jones’ disappearance.
Jones also chose not to compete Friday night in the long jump, her only event at the Athens Olympics last summer. It is conceivable she could compete in the 200 meters today and Sunday, but she has not run a 200 in competition this season. Thus her withdrawal Friday night probably means she will not compete this summer in the world championships, an event which occurs every other year. She has won five world championships gold medals.
Jones has only run the 100 this season, and she has done so poorly.
