Lyles, Richardson Headline US Olympic Trials

The United States track and field team trials for the Paris Olympics are set to commence in Eugene, Oregon, this Friday, featuring a star-studded lineup.

Noah Lyles, the reigning world champion, is a top contender in both the men’s 100m and 200m races. Lyles, who clocked a time of 9.85 seconds in Kingston recently, is confident in his ability to win despite facing stiff competition from Christian Coleman, the 2019 world champion, and the up-and-coming Christian Miller.

Lyles also triumphed in the 200m at the NYC Grand Prix with a time of 19.77 seconds, but he anticipates a tough challenge from Kenny Bednarek, the current world leader in the event. Lyles, who secured a bronze medal in Tokyo, is determined to find his stride again for the upcoming trials.

On the women’s side, Sha’Carri Richardson is eager to make a comeback after her disqualification from the Tokyo Olympics due to a cannabis-related suspension.

Richardson, who recently won gold in Budapest, is a formidable competitor in the 100m. However, she faces a challenging field in the 200m, including Tokyo bronze medalist Gabby Thomas and McKenzie Long, who recently set a world-leading time of 21.83 seconds at the collegiate championships.

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, the world record holder in the 400m hurdles, is prepared to defend her Olympic title. She remains focused on her signature event, despite having shown promise in the 200m and 400m flat races.

Athing Mu, the Olympic champion in the 800m, is expected to make her season debut at the trials. Mu has been relatively quiet since earning a bronze at last year’s World Championships but is anticipated to be a strong contender in her event.

The trials promise to be a showcase of determination and talent as athletes vie for a spot on the Olympic team.

Reported By Reuters.