Azeem dashes into 100m semis but Thai ace sets pace at University Games
Competing in the seventh heat of the first round under rainy and windy conditions, Azeem stayed composed and crossed the line first in 10.57s, ahead of South Korea's Joeljin Nwamadi (10.61s) and Canada's Nikolaos Dowhos (10.72s).
The Hangzhou 2022 Asian Games bronze medallist was the only Malaysian to advance after teammate Aliff Iman Mohd Fahmi finished fifth in heat five with a time of 11.09s.
Azeem, who studies at Auburn University in the United States and holds the national record of 10.09s, is hoping for a strong finish.
"Actually, I conserved energy because I know there are two rounds next (semi-final and the final). My goal was just to finish the race uninjured," said the 22-year-old.
"Alhamdulillah, it went well. Now, I just need to stay focused and maintain the right mindset. The weather disrupted things a bit, but that's part of the game - no excuses," he added.
Thailand's Puripol Boonson was the fastest overall in the opening round with 10.23s, followed by South Africa's Bayanda Joy Walaza (10.27s) and Kyle Brian Zinn (10.33s).
In the men's 400m, Southeast Asia's reigning champion Umar Osman also qualified for the semi-finals. He was among the fastest non-automatic qualifiers after finishing fourth in heat four with a time of 46.97s.
Ireland's Jack Raftery won the heat in 46.39s, followed by Matej Krsek of the Czech Republic (46.48s) and Malta's Matthew Galea Soler (46.82s).
"It wasn't my best time, but I'm grateful to make it through. I'll aim for a stronger showing in the semi-final. The weather was okay, but the wind was strong - still, I don't see that as an excuse,' said Umar, who holds the national record of 46.09s.
His season-best so far is 46.25s, recorded at the Asian Athletics Championships in Gumi, South Korea, in May.
In the men's 400m hurdles, Fakrul Afizul Nasir sustained a hamstring injury and finished with a time of 1:11.87 in heat two.
Mohd Aidil Azhar Azrul Hisyam was disqualified from his 400m heat for a lane infringement.
On the women's side, Malaysia's challenge ended early. Chelsea Cassiopea Evali Bopulas (400m), Nur Afrina Batrisyia Mohamad Rizal (100m), Azreen Nabila Alias (100m), and shot put athlete Nani Sahirah Maryata were all eliminated in the qualifying rounds.
Athletics competition at the Games will continue until the closing ceremony on Sunday. - Bernama
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