An earlier report I heard said Thorpe was disqualified in the qualifying heat after slipping off his block.

Later I heard his club had appealed against the disqualification on the grounds that the starter held the competitors too long and said Thorpe heard a noise which he mistook for the starter's gun.

The appeal was dismissed by both the meet referee and a jury of appeal - so I guess that's it - rules are rules - one door shuts & another one opens.

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Ta me go maith