Aaliyah Butler took a significant step towards her Olympic dream on Saturday evening, securing a spot in the women’s 400-meter final on the day of action at the 2024 U.S. Olympic Trials.
After an impressive performance in the first round heats on Friday night, the Fort Lauderdale native and University of Georgia sophomore clocked 50.01 seconds in the semi-finals, finishing second in her heat behind Arkansas’ Kaylyn Brown (49.71).
Butler’s performance marked a redemption of sorts after failing to make the final at the NCAA National Championships earlier this month.
There’s still work to be done, but the 20-year-old Miami Northwestern High School graduate is undoubtedly excited for the opportunity to race again in the final, where she will aim to stay focused on my own race and execute her coach’s plan.
Meanwhile, Kendall Ellis made a statement in the second semi-final, winning with a personal best of 49.81 seconds. The 28-year-old multiple Olympic and World Championships medalist will enter the final with the second-fastest qualifying time.
Another seasoned athlete, Lynna Irby-Jackson took the third semi-final in 50.17 seconds, defeating Isabella Whittaker of the University of Pennsylvania, who produced a strong performance to cross the line at 50.48.
Other qualifiers for Sunday’s final include Shamier Little (50.16), Alexis Holmes (50.19), JaMeesia Ford (50.33), and Quanera Hayes (50.46).
The women’s 400m final is set for 9:58 p.m. ET on Sunday, with three spots on the U.S. Olympic team up for grabs.
Live results and updates are here
