Chalmers calls end to tough season

After struggling to an off-colour 47.49sec. for fourth in his heat at Alexander Stadium, lagging in-form Great Britain teammates Matt Hudson-Smith and Joe Brier, he has called his season to an early close and will miss out on the upcoming European Championships.

But the 25-year-old had his reasons not to be at his best – a bout of Covid preceded other setbacks, including a still-troublesome Achilles issue.

On the finish line, Chalmers spoke like a gentleman, expressing his gratitude simply to have lined up for his second Commonwealth Games.

‘It’s tough, because obviously I’ve worked hard and done everything I possibly can to get here and it’s just not a performance that I’m happy with or a time that should be next to my name,’ he said.

‘But all considered, I’m just grateful to be here and to have had the experience of standing on the start line and listening to the crowd and being part of the Games.

‘I thought I earned my place here and if my body lets me run, then regardless of the shape, I’ll go out there and find out for myself.’

Chalmers' body unfortunately limited him – as Hudson-Smith eased to heat victory, the Guernseyman finished 1.85sec. down on his personal best and it was quickly apparent he would not be making the semi-finals.

He subsequently called his year an ‘uphill battle’ and admitted he was earlier unsure about racing.

But he added: ‘In 20 years’ time, I’ll look back and probably be glad that I at least went out and found out, instead of leaving myself wondering.’