Sha’Carri Richardson, the 100m champion from last weekend’s US Olympic Trials, continued her dominant performance by winning her opening round of the 200m on Thursday night. Richardson, who had previously faced a suspension for marijuana use, showed incredible power and speed, clocking in at 21.99 seconds despite slowing down over the final 20 meters. This marked her third sub-22 performance in the 200m, indicating her potential to excel in the longer sprint.
Noah Lyles, the reigning world champion in the 200m, also secured a comfortable win in his opening round with a time of 20.10 seconds. Lyles, known for his stylish appearance, showed his confidence and control throughout the race.
Joining Richardson and Lyles at the Trials were two other prominent athletes: Gabby Thomas, the 200m bronze medalist in Tokyo, and Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, the reigning Olympic champion and world record holder in the 400 hurdles. Both athletes cruised through their respective opening rounds with ease.
When asked if she felt relieved knowing she would compete in the 100m in Paris, Richardson emphasized that she always feels pressure on the track. “Any time I touch the track it’s an opportunity for me to work on my best self, to be my best self,” she said.
Meanwhile, Lyles, who showcased his playful side with a white track suit, silver choker, and a set of Yu Gi Oh! cards, was able to conserve energy during his heat win. He emphasized his focus on saving energy for the upcoming rounds.
In other news from the sprint events, Kishane Thompson from Jamaica ran a remarkable 9.82 seconds in the opening round of his country’s national championships, which is faster than Lyles’ winning time in the 100m at the US Trials.
Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, despite battling injuries and a recent loss of her big toe nails, showed her resilience by clocking a time of 53.07 seconds in the 400 hurdles. This time, although not her best, would have secured the Olympic gold medal in 2016.
Gabby Thomas, who opted to focus on the 200m, showcased her speed with a time of 22.11 seconds, securing the second-best time in the opening rounds.
In the long jump, Tara Davis-Woodhall, who has been undefeated this year, advanced to the final with a jump of 6.93 meters on her first attempt. Despite a rough start due to her menstrual cycle, Davis-Woodhall successfully overcame the challenge and secured her spot in the final.
These opening rounds at the US Olympic Trials showcased the talent and determination of the athletes vying for a spot in the Paris Games. With the finals approaching, the competition is sure to intensify as athletes strive to secure their place on the national team.
