But, in taking silver among a much-improved 400m hurdles field at Sunday’s Novuna UK Championships final, Chalmers has guaranteed his place at next month’s Tokyo 2025 ‘Worlds’.
Tyri Donovan upstaged him at Birmingham’s Alexander Stadium – the site of Chalmers’ landmark Commonwealth Games medal – by winning in 49.18sec., just 0.02sec. clear of the Sarnian.
Seamus Derbyshire initially appeared Chalmers’ main challenger among several hurdlers who have made big breakthroughs this season.
But by the home straight, Donovan had rallied from a hit hurdle to lead what still looked a four-man race, and Chalmers – who had lost some vital rhythm in windy conditions – was left charging him down off the final barrier, coming just short.
Derbyshire claimed bronze in 49.50 after Jake Minshull suffered a race-ending tumble.
‘He seemed annoyed with himself, but certainly the fact that it’s job done in terms of qualification will be a big consolation,’ Guernsey Athletics development officer Tom Druce said.
Chalmers had cruised to an assured heat victory the previous afternoon.
After a fast start, he eased off and crossed the line in 50.68, beating Efekemo Okoro by 0.59sec.
Abi Galpin raced in a strong 200m heat, won by 2024 European silver medallist Daryll Neita, on Sunday.
After a tough build-up, Galpin settled for eighth with 24.67 but achieved the smaller victory of her first 200m race without adductor pain this summer.
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