Amusan optimistic after securing season lead
Following her stellar performance this season, Tobi Amusan, the world record holder in women’s 100m hurdles, exudes confidence as she sets the pace for her competitors.
During the Jamaican Athletics Invitational in Kingston on Sunday, the 27-year-old sprinter clocked an impressive 12.40s (0.9), establishing the fastest time so far this year.
This achievement comes after overcoming a setback at the Shanghai/Suzhou Diamond League in April, where she faced disqualification for a false start, though she contested the decision.
Thrilled by her victory in Jamaica, Amusan, a three-time Diamond League winner, feels she is in peak condition as she gears up for defending her title and aiming for the podium at the Paris 2024 Olympics slated from July 26 to August 11.
“This season has been the healthiest for me. I have been free of pain compared to previous years. I made a promise to myself not to get disqualified today (Sunday). Despite not being the best starter, I am grateful for the win,” shared Amusan in an interview with World Athletics conveyed by Making of Champions.
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She outpaced Jamaican and world champion, Danielle Williams, whose time of 12.46s secured a second-place finish. Initially trailing behind Williams and America’s Nia Ali, Amusan surged ahead in the final stretch, surpassing the previous world-leading time set by Tonea Marshall of the USA.
Amusan’s remarkable season has been marked by significant milestones, including clinching her third African Games title in Ghana and breaking the African 60m indoor record twice this year.
Furthermore, she set a new record of 7.77s in January at the Astana Indoor Meet in Kazakhstan, surpassing Glory Alozie’s 1999 mark of 7.82s.
Despite participating in two Diamond League events this year without clinching a victory, Amusan remains focused and determined to maintain her impressive form throughout the season.
As Amusan continues to dominate the track, her competitors must be prepared to face a formidable challenger in the upcoming competitions.
