made a swift exit from the event yesterday.

Sprinter Devon Bean was disqualified in the first of six heats for the 60 metres, although what caused his disqualification was not known late last night.

Nobody from Bermuda Track and Field Association was available for comment.

Bean, in his second indoor season at the University of Arkansas, had been allowed to make the 20,000-mile round trip despite not reaching the qualifying standard.

The 22-year-old, who qualified for the Commonwealth Games in the 100 metres, 200 metres and long jump but was unable to take his place in the team due to college commitments, took advantage of a rule enabling each country to enter one person in a running event who had not achieved the standard.

American Maurice Greene, the world outdoor 100 metres champion, won yesterday's event in a new championship record of 6.42.