EUGENE, Oregon (June 22) — Sha’Carri Richardson stormed into the final of the women’s 100-meters on the second day of the 2024 U.S. Olympic Trials on Saturday, clocking 10.86 seconds (0.4 m/s) to win the first of three semi-final heats.
The world champion from Budapest last summer showcased her trademark acceleration, overcoming a less-than-ideal start to secure victory and the fastest qualifying time for the final. Richardson had posted 10.88 seconds in Friday’s heats.
Former national champion and standout NCAA star at Coastal Carolina University, Melissa Jefferson matched Richardson’s form, winning the third heat in a season-best 10.87 seconds (-0.2 m/s) into a slight headwind.
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However, the night was not without its upsets. NCAA champion and pre-event favorite McKenzie Long saw her Olympic dreams dashed, finishing fourth in the second semi-final with a time of 11.15 seconds, resulting in her elimination.
Tamari Davis secured her spot in the final, clocking 10.99 seconds to finish second behind Richardson. Anavia Battle and Jenna Prandini also advanced to final on time, both recording 11.09 seconds.
The second semi-final went to Tamara Clark in 11.09 seconds, with Candace Hill also progressing to the final.
In the third heat, Jefferson’s victory was followed by Aleia Hobbs (10.99) and Twanisha Terry (11.04), both earning places in the final.
The women’s 100m final at the 2024 U.S. Olympic Trials is set for 10:50 p.m. ET on Saturday night, promising a showdown of America’s top sprinters vying for spots on the Olympic team.