Breakthroughs, Upsets, and Historic Performances Highlight U.S. Olympic Trials First Half

The U.S. Olympic Trials first half has seen a series of breakthroughs, upsets, and historic performances at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon. Follow Maxx Bradley and FloTrack to stay updated on the latest from the event.

In the women’s 100m final, Sha’Carri Richardson secured her second consecutive national title, clocking an impressive 10.71. She was followed by her Star Athletics teammates Javianne Oliver and Gabby Thomas, with times of 10.80 and 10.89 respectively.

The women’s 800m final was marked by chaos, as Athing Mu, the American record-holder and defending Olympic champion, suffered a fall early on. Nia Akins emerged victorious in 1:57.36, with Allie Wilson and Juliette Whittaker finishing second and third.

Elise Cranny narrowly out-leaned Karissa Schweizer in the women’s 5,000m final, with Marielle Hall taking the third qualifying spot to Paris. The men’s pole vault saw a surprising turn of events as Sam Kendricks fell out of contention, but Chris Nilsen and KC Lightfoot secured their spots.

DeAnna Price and Brooke Andersen excelled in the women’s hammer throw, with Gwendolyn Berry finishing sixth. In the heptathlon, Annie Kunz claimed victory, with Taliyah Brooks finishing third.

Noah Lyles won the men’s 100m title, matching his world lead of 9.83. The men’s 10,000m race saw Grant Fisher clinching the win, while Benard Keter triumphed in the men’s steeplechase. The men’s shot put event was dominated by Ryan Crouser, with Joe Kovacs and Payton Otterdahl rounding out the top three.

Mason Ferlic impressed in the steeplechase, as did Austin Kratz in the decathlon. The competition continues to heat up as athletes vie for coveted spots on the U.S. Olympic team.