Hudson-Smith crowned first Grand Slam Track champion in men’s long sprints
KINGSTON: Britain’s Matthew Hudson-Smith made history on Saturday as the first-ever Grand Slam Track champion in the men’s long sprints group, claiming victory in the 200 metres at the debut meet of the new circuit in Kingston, Jamaica.
The Paris 400m silver medalist, who was second in the standings after Friday’s 400m race, surged to the title with a powerful run in the 200m, finishing in 20.77 seconds. His strong performance earned him a total of 20 points and the long sprints crown.
“Great to get the first one, I’m really excited and grateful,” said Hudson-Smith, who also took home a $100,000 prize. “I’m getting to the end of my career so it’s time to start saving,” the 30-year-old added.
In the men’s short sprints, American Kenny Bednarek dominated by winning both the 100m and 200m races. His blazing 20.07-second finish in the 200m, ahead of Britain’s Zharnel Hughes, secured him the short sprints title with 24 points.
The Grand Slam Track, spearheaded by sprint legend Michael Johnson, aims to revolutionize the sport by turning athletics into the “Formula One of athlete racing,” with athletes competing in two events per meet across 12 groups to determine champions.(Reuters)
