Felix looks to Tokyo

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP):

Allyson Felix downplayed any hint of disappointment after the 400 metres final at the United States Championships on Saturday.

This performance wasn't about the now but about a year from now - the Tokyo Games.

In that respect, the six-time Olympic gold medallist feels on the right track - maybe even ahead of schedule in her return to racing eight months after having a baby.

Felix finished sixth in the race and missed out on qualifying in an individual event for Worlds for the first time as a professional.

"I knew that it was a less-than-ideal situation for me," Felix said. "But being in this environment and being back in the final, it kind of gets the juices flowing. It's going to be a lot easier going into next year and getting a full year of training."

Felix fell behind early in the race and couldn't make up ground. Shakima Wimbley won in 50.21 seconds, with Kendall Ellis taking second and Wadeline Jonathas third. Felix finished in 51.94.

After it was over, Felix went over to the stands and picked up her daughter, Camryn. Only 32 weeks into her pregnancy, Felix gave birth to Camryn on November 28 in an emergency Cesarean section after tests showed that the baby's heart rate had dropped to dangerous levels.

Gradually, she's worked her way back. The 33-year-old Felix can still make the US relay team for the World Championships in Doha this fall. She's made every World outdoor team since in 2003.

"This gave me a taste. I know it's there," said Felix, who will be attempting to make her fifth Olympic team next summer. "The fire is there. I'll be back next year."