Australian athletics sensation Gout Gout didn’t break the 10-second barrier, but he still showed plenty of flair to ease his way to the U20 national 100m title.
Gout was second after the first 50m, but stormed over the top to easily clear the field to the point he could even offer a wave to the crowd before crossing the finish line in 10.21 (+0.5m/s).
The result see Gout qualify for the world junior championships, which has been his target since making the decision to skip this year’s Commonwealth Games.
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Gout came in as the fastest qualifier, with all eyes on whether he could break his PB and the magical 10-second barrier, but instead he may have to wait to do it on the world stage have eased through the finish.
Running from lane five, the teenage phenom got off to a strong start before powering past his competitors, including early leader Labenda, who had given him plenty to chase in the opening stages.
With 20 metres to go, Gout Gout waved goodbye to his rivals in a stunning display of dominance at the Brisbane stadium, which came to a standstill to watch the highly anticipated race.
The 18-year-old phenomenon ran 10.19 (+0.3m/s) in the 100m heats of the Australian Athletics Junior Championships in Brisbane on Friday.
Gout blitzed Jamaican legend Usain Bolt’s under-20 time of 19.93 set in 2004 to claim the world record in the age group.
