The U.S. Olympic Track and Field Team Trials in Eugene, Oregon, delivered a night of electrifying performances, with the spotlight firmly on the 400m hurdles stars who shone brightly, culminating in a world record. The event was a showcase of athletic prowess, determination, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Noah Lyles and Kenny Bednarek both secured their places in the men’s 100m and 200m for the Paris Olympics. Lyles set a new U.S. Trials record with a blistering time of 19.53 seconds in the men’s 200m final, overtaking Bednarek in the last 50 meters. Bednarek, who finished with a personal-best time of 19.59 seconds, will join Lyles and the young sensation Erriyon Knighton in the Olympic 200m.
In the post-race interview, Bednarek playfully vowed to beat Lyles next time, setting the stage for an exciting rivalry in Paris. The night was filled with other thrilling finals, including the women’s 200m, women’s 10,000m, women’s shot put, women’s long jump, and men’s discus.
Gabby Thomas clinched victory in the women’s 200m final, securing her second Olympic appearance with a time of 21.81 seconds. She will be joined by first-time Olympians Brittany Brown and McKenzie Long. Sha’Carri Richardson, who finished fourth, will compete in the Olympic 100m and 4x100m relay.
Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone dominated the women’s 400m hurdles semifinals, posting the eighth-fastest time ever at 52.48 seconds. She advanced to the final alongside Dalilah Muhammad and seven others, setting the stage for a highly anticipated showdown.
In the men’s discus, Andrew Evans secured his second Olympic spot with a top throw of 66.61m. Joseph Brown also booked his place on the Olympic team, while Sam Mattis, who finished second, will need to qualify later via World Athletics rankings.
The women’s long jump final was a dramatic affair, with Tara Davis-Woodhall winning with a leap of 7.00m, securing her second Olympic berth. Jasmine Moore and Monae’ Nichols also qualified for the Olympics, with Nichols hitting the Olympic standard on her final attempt.
Chase Jackson, a two-time world champion, won the women’s shot put final with a throw of 20.10m, just shy of a U.S. Trials record. She will be joined in Paris by Raven Saunders and Jaida Ross.
Weini Kelati’s victory in the women’s 10,000m final was a testament to her resilience and determination. Kelati, who sought asylum in the U.S. in 2014, will represent her adopted country at the Olympics. Parker Valby and Karissa Schweizer, who finished second and third respectively, are also likely to qualify for Paris.
The men’s 200m final was the highlight of the night, with Noah Lyles setting a new U.S. Trials record and securing his fourth U.S. title in the event. Kenny Bednarek and Erriyon Knighton also qualified for the Olympics, while Christian Coleman finished fourth.
The U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials showcased the incredible talent and determination of American athletes, setting the stage for an exciting Olympic Games in Paris. The performances in Eugene were a testament to the hard work and dedication of these athletes, who will now represent their country on the world’s biggest stage.
Source: NBC Sports, USA Today
