US sprint star’s path to LA leads through Stawell
Shayne Hope |
US sprint megastar Sha’Carri Richardson is treating her marquee appearance at the Stawell Gift as “glorified practice” as she sets her sights on Los Angeles Olympics gold.
A 100m world champion and Paris Olympics silver medallist, Richardson laughed when first presented with the idea of running in the 120m handicap on grass in Victoria’s Wimmera region.
But curiosity ultimately got the better of the headline-grabbing track phenomenon, who promises to bring a touch of global glamour to Central Park.
“I definitely thought it was funny and unique,” Richardson said ahead of Australia’s richest footrace, which carries a $40,000 winner’s prize.
“Being on grass, it reminded me of what I used to do as a child that led me to loving track and field, which was running and racing in the fields.
“So I was like, ‘Why not give it a try?'”
Richardson, 26, researched the 144-year-old event and accepted the invitation, planning to use her trip down under in part as a reconnaissance mission ahead of the Brisbane Olympics in 2032.
“I still think it’s going to be a glorified practice … but it challenges me to do what it is that I’ve been practicing to do and what we’ve been creating this season,” she said.
“I can work on the small things, that way they can translate into big moments and big races.
“I actually did a little bit more research on the history (of the race) and it’s definitely going to be a challenge. But, for me, I love a challenge.”
Richardson will be one of the star attractions in Stawell alongside partner and compatriot Christian Coleman, with last year’s drawcards Gout Gout and Lachlan Kennedy instead focused on this month’s national championships.
The American pair will race off scratch in their respective women’s and men’s handicaps knowing only two back-markers in each event have won the Stawell Gift.
The list includes last year’s women’s winner Bree Rizzo, who returns to defend her crown.
Richardson will head to Stawell on Friday to get a feel for the venue and track ahead of Saturday’s heats.
“I believe I can win this weekend and I will do everything in my power to win,” Richardson said.
“I’m not going to leave without leaving everything on the grass.”
Richardson’s major focus is on LA as she plots Olympic redemption after she was beaten for gold by Saint Lucia’s Julien Alfred in Paris.
“LA is something that is an everyday goal,” Richardson said.
“It’s a reminder, motivation to know that the seed you plant today is going to be what it is that shows up when it comes to 2028.”
Richardson will be 32 years old when the Brisbane Olympics rolls around in 2032 and sees her first visit to Australia as a chance to scope out the country.
“It’s to feel the culture and put our roots here a little,” Richardson said.
“We appreciate the opportunity now and when it comes back in 2032, don’t forget us.”
AAP