Gout breaks Usain Bolt’s 200m record for 16-year-olds

By Afolabi Idowu Olaiya

In a remarkable display of speed and talent, Australian sprinter Gout has shattered Usain Bolt’s long-standing record for the fastest 16-year-old in history in the 200 meters. Competing at the Australian All Schools Championships held in Brisbane, Gout clocked an impressive time of 20.04 seconds on Saturday, surpassing Bolt’s previous record of 20.13 seconds set in 2003. This achievement positions Gout as a formidable force in the world of athletics as he approaches his 17th birthday on December 29.

Gout’s remarkable performance not only broke a historic record but also placed him among the elite athletes in the sport. At just 16, he is now one of the only three men in history to run faster than 20.04 seconds at the age of 17, joining the ranks of American sprinter Erriyon Knighton, who holds the record at 19.84 seconds, and Bolt, who recorded a time of 19.93 seconds.

Gout’s achievement also met the entry standard of 20.16 seconds for the upcoming World Outdoor Track and Field Championships scheduled to take place in Tokyo next September.

Reflecting on his extraordinary feat, Gout expressed his excitement and disbelief at his performance.

“These are adult times, and me, just a kid—I’m running them,” he stated, as reported by Australia’s track and field federation. “It’s going to be a great future for sure.”

His words resonate with the aspirations of young athletes worldwide, showcasing the potential of youth in competitive sports.

In addition to breaking Bolt’s record, Gout also set a new Australian record for all ages in the 200 meters, surpassing the previous mark of 20.06 seconds held by Peter Norman, who won a silver medal at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics. Norman is also remembered for his courageous stand for human rights during the medal ceremony. Gout acknowledged the significance of his achievement, saying, “I didn’t expect it to be that fast, but I guess I ran Australia’s fastest ever time in the 200m. I have been chasing that record, but I didn’t think it would come this year. I thought maybe next year or the year after that.”

As reported, Gout was born in Brisbane to South Sudanese parents who moved to Australia two years prior, Gout has quickly made a name for himself in the athletics community.

This year, he won silver in the 200 meters at the World U20 Championships, turning professional and signing a contract with Adidas in October.

Gout embraces pressure, rising through athletics ranks confidently, stating,

“But you know what they say, pressure makes diamonds, and I guess I’m better than a diamond right now. We just take little steps; beat my PB by 0.01 and 0.02. Chasing that big sub-20, it will be great for sure but I’m not expecting too much.”

Gout’s talent caught attention, with Olympic gold medalist Noah Lyles congratulating him after his impressive 100m times of 10.04 and 10.17 seconds.

“Congratulations on your many GREAT moments this Year. I also heard you are planning to come train with the group for a few weeks. See you soon.”

As Gout breaks records, he inspires young athletes, showcasing extraordinary talent and encouraging them to pursue their dreams in sports.

Gout’s future in athletics looks incredibly promising, and fans eagerly anticipate what he will accomplish next.

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