Professional superstars from Team International stole the show at the Texas Relays this past weekend, breaking barriers and setting records in several events. The women’s 4×200-meter relay, consisting of Rashidat Adeleke, Dina Asher-Smith, Julien Alfred, and Lanae-Tava Thomas, ran a world-best time of 1:27.05. Later, they also clinched victory in the 4×400-meter relay, with Asher-Smith showcasing her skills in a captivating final leg duel with Britton Wilson.
The success of Team International can be attributed to the chemistry and talent of the relay team, with three of the runners previously part of the dominant University of Texas 4×100-meter relay team. Gabby Thomas, a World Champion and Olympian, also left her mark by winning the 100-meter dash and setting a world-leading time in the 200-meter dash. These athletes’ performances showcased their exceptional speed and prowess on the track at the prestigious Texas Relays.
In Gainsville, Florida, the Florida Relays also witnessed impressive performances, particularly from the Gainesville Elite 4×100-meter relay team. Grant Holloway, PJ Austin, Erriyon Knighton, and Joseph Fauhnbulleh ran a remarkable time of 37.67 seconds, setting a new world-leading mark and meet record. Their outstanding relay performance highlighted the depth of the USA 4×100-meter relay pool, with potential selections for the upcoming Olympics.
The high school division at the Florida Relays saw exceptional feats as well, with the Bullis girl’s 4×400-meter relay team breaking the long-standing national record. Payton Payne, Kennedy Brown, Sydney Sutton, and Morgan Rothwell ran 3:35.23, eclipsing a record set 20 years ago. Additionally, 16-year-old Quincy Wilson showed promise with a fast time of 45.19 in the 400-meter, meeting the U.S. Olympic Trials Qualifying Standard.
Collegiate athletes also made their mark, with South Carolina freshman Jameesia Ford impressing as she anchored her team to victory in the 4×400-meter relay. Ford’s exceptional speed and ability to excel in both short and longer sprint events demonstrated her potential to perform well at the upcoming U.S. Olympic Trials. The athletes at the Florida Relays showcased their talent and determination on the track, setting the stage for a competitive season ahead.
Further south in Baton Rouge, LSU hosted a meet that saw fast performances in the women’s 100-meter dash. Nigeria’s Favour Ofili emerged victorious in a wind-aided time of 10.85 seconds, with Brianna Lyston, Mackenzie Long, and Thelma Davies also posting impressive times under 11 seconds. The meet at LSU highlighted the speed and skill of the competitors, setting the tone for an exciting season of track and field competitions ahead.
