Daegu (South Korea), Sep 2: A relaxed and joking Usain Bolt safely negotiated his 200m heat at the world championships today (Sep 2), putting behind him the dreadful false start that ruined his 100m hopes.

The Jamaican reigning world and Olympic champion, and world record holder (19.19sec), clocked 20.30sec and never looked in danger after an impeccable start.

He came off the bend well in front of the field and coasted through to the finish line, affording himself several glances over his shoulder at the chasing athletes.

Bolt, who admits he is not in world record shape this season, had insisted he would not dwell on the disappointment of his 100m disqualification.

And at a packed Daegu stadium, many seats filled for the morning session by busloads of schoolchildren, Bolt did not fail to entertain.

Goofing at the television cameras, showing the ''V'' for victory, preening his hair and striking his trademark lightning bolt pose, Bolt seemed relaxed and a world away from the desolate figure he cut after being disqualified from Sunday's 100m final.

PTI