Teen sprint sensation Gout Gout continued his impressive European campaign with another standout performance, this time at the Diamond League meet in Monaco. The 17-year-old Australian, racing during his school holidays, clocked 20.10 seconds into a headwind in an invitational 200m race at the prestigious Stade Louis II. Despite facing a stiff 1.9m/s breeze, Gout maintained his unbeaten run on European soil, surging away off the bend to finish well ahead of Botswana’s Busang Collen Kebinatshipi (20.28s) and South Africa’s Naeem Jack (20.42s).
Just over two weeks earlier, Gout had set an Australian record of 20.02s in Ostrava, Czech Republic. Given better wind conditions in Monaco, he may have dipped under 20 seconds again.
“My strength lies in my top-end speed,” Gout explained post-race. “If I stay relaxed and nail the first 50 to 100 metres, I know I can reel anyone in.”
Now headed back to his studies in Queensland, Gout reflected on the experience fondly and reaffirmed his goal of competing at the senior World Championships in Japan this September.
“I’ve barely raced this season due to school, but during the holidays I get the chance. I’m pleased with how I performed given the headwind,” he said.
Although he didn’t compete in the official Diamond League 200m won by Noah Lyles in 19.88s Gout preferred a gradual introduction to high-profile events. “No rush,” he said. “Right now, I just want to enjoy the journey.”
His performance was part of a banner night for Australian athletics. Jess Hull set a national record in the 1000m with a 2:30.96 run for third place, while Peter Bol shattered his own 800m Australian record, placing fourth in 1:42.55 in a lightning-fast race won by Emmanuel Wanyonyi in a world-leading 1:41.44.
“I’ve had tough years, but I’ve bounced back,” Bol said. “Setting another Australian record? That feels amazing.”
Be the first to comment