BRISBANE: Rising sprint star Gout Gout made a strong showing at the Australian athletics junior championships, effortlessly winning his heat for the 100 metres in a time of 10.19 seconds.
At just 18 years old, Gout is responding to critics in the USA who have dismissed his impressive 200-metre performance at the senior championships earlier this week. Competing on his home track, he recorded his lightning-fast heat time with a gusty breeze of +0.3 metres per second assisting him.
His heat performance sets the stage for the upcoming semi-finals and finals, which are scheduled for Saturday afternoon. Gout commented on his run, stating, "It’s a good run. Definitely saved myself for semis and finals, and just trying to pull a couple of these boys through, so definitely a good run and can’t wait for tomorrow."
He expressed confidence in his ability to achieve an even faster time, adding, "I’ve definitely got more in the tank, for sure. Last week was a great run and I’m hoping to continue this championship as well and put on a little bit of a show."
Recently, Gout’s critics—including Olympic champion and former drug offender Justin Gatlin—have taken to social media to disparage the world under-20 record of 19.67 seconds he set in the 200 metres. Gout had some pointed remarks for his detractors post-race.
"There’s always got to be haters," he remarked. "If you’ve got haters, it means you’re doing something right, so it is what it is… It was pretty fast, so that’s probably why they’re a bit mad, but it is what it is."
When asked if the negativity from critics serves as motivation, Gout affirmed, "Yeah, 100 per cent. I mean, it just motivates me to do it in even bigger races, for sure, and run even faster."
Fans can look forward to more thrilling performances as Gout prepares for the crucial rounds in the coming days.