Sha’Carri Richardson is officially an Olympian. After the controversy surrounding her Olympic run in 2021, the 24-year-old defied all odds and secured her spot on Team USA during the track and field team trials on Saturday, June 22. Richardson qualified for the Paris Olympics in July after sprinting to first place in the women’s 100-meter dash. In an emotional race across the finish line, Richardson achieved the fastest women’s 100-meter time in the world this year at 10.71 seconds. Her record-breaking achievement followed the buzz surrounding her first-place finish in a qualifying heat the day before. This career defining moment is one of many for the gifted runner. Her track record is stellar and she ranks as the world’s fourth female track and field star. The Dallas native quickly rose to fame for her lightning speed and signature style. Sports fans often compare the athlete to Olympic gold medalist Florence Griffth Joyner, also known as Flo-Jo, who was also recognized as one of the fastest Black female sprinters of all time. Richardson embodies Flo-Jo’s spirit with her long nails and unique hairstyles and looks primed for a similar track record. It’s also Richardson’s ability to rise after a major setback and resume the upward trajectory of her athletic career that makes the athlete’s Olympic bid a must-watch — because not all Black athletes are given grace.
In a video of her first heat race at the US Olympic Track & Field trials, Richardson slightly tripped out of the starting blocks of the race. The athlete’s shoelace was untied, but she continued running with her eye on the finish line. Despite the unforeseen circumstances early on, Richardson won the race with the fastest time of 10.88 seconds. Afterward, Richardson spoke with NBC News about her triumph despite the hiccups. “I definitely didn’t have the start I’ve been training to have in this moment,” Richardson said. “But still not panicking, staying patient and knowing that no matter what’s going on to continue to run my race,” she continued. Despite the obstacles she faced, her managing to still finish on top proves that she wasn’t going to let anyone get in the way of her dream to be an Olympian.
In 2021, Richardson was set to compete in the Tokyo Olympics after running the 100-meter dash in an outstanding 10.86 seconds. With her bright orange hair and signature decorated long nails, the then-21-year-old flew down the track for a chance at winning gold. After qualifying for the Tokyo Olympics, her career-defining moment was quickly snatched away a week later. Headlines broke announcing that Richardson tested positive for THC, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. She faced a one-month suspension as a result. Outrage from supporters and non-sports fans swiftly followed after the announcement. Richardson’s inability to move forward due to an outdated policy was not only frustrating to learn but also upsetting to witness. The public’s perception of marijuana has shifted drastically throughout the years, which has resulted …read more
Source:: Refinery29
