Shani Davis just off podium in 1,500 meters at speedskating worlds

HEERENVEEN, Netherlands (AP) -- Denny Morrison of Canada won the 1,500-meter speedskating world title Thursday despite appearing to be hampered by Shani Davis of the United States.

Morrison had to hold back to prevent crashing into Davis as the skaters came out of the second bend but managed to retain enough speed to finish first in 1 minute, 46.44 seconds.

"I surprised even myself today and it feels awesome," said Morrison, the 2008 world 1,500 champion. "It's the first time for me winning a 1,500 in a couple of years."

Ivan Skobrev of Russia was second in 1:46.49, just edging defending champion Havard Bokko of Norway who finished third in 1:46.50. Davis was fourth.

Martina Sablikova of the Czech Republic won the women's 3,000 in 4:1.88 to complete an unbeaten season over the distance.

Stephanie Beckert of Germany was second in 4:04.09, putting in a powerful final lap to push defending champion Ireen Wust of the Netherlands into third.