Lewis Runs 10.05, Johnson 10.35, but They Run in Separate Races

RIETI, Italy — Carl Lewis ran the 100 meters in 10.05 seconds, while Ben Johnson was timed in 10.35, but they ran separate races at the Rieti track and field meet Tuesday.

Johnson refused to race with Lewis, saying he was too tired and did not want tough competition. Lewis said he was disappointed at Johnson’s decision.

In the recent World Track and Field Championships in Rome, Johnson set a world record of 9.83 in beating Lewis, who ran 9.93.

Lewis turned in a strong effort Tuesday, beating Ray Stewart of Jamaica, who was second in 10.27. Johnson coasted to victory in his race, clearly slowing down toward the end while edging Harvey Glance, who was timed in 10.41.

The meet featured many stars from the world championships, which ended in Rome Sunday, and most of them appeared tired.

The only exception was Bulgarian women’s high jumper Steska Kostidonova, who made a try at the world record of 6 feet 10 inches. She just missed her second try, but clearly showed that she was ready for better efforts She won at 6-9.

The disappointment of the meet was pole vaulter Sergei Bubka of the Soviet Union. The world champion and world record-holder failed to clear any of his three starting tries at 18-4 1/2 and was eliminated. American Earl Bell won at 18-8.