Global Black Voices: News from around the World
PHILADELPHIA, USA, CMC – Jamaica’s Ackera Nugent continued her dominance in the Women’s Short Hurdles, securing her second consecutive Grand Slam Championship despite facing a formidable challenge from American star Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone at the Philadelphia event at the historic Franklin Field on Sunday.
Nugent swept both races in the event group, including a thrilling victory in the 100m hurdles in a time of 12:44, where she edged out McLaughlin-Levrone in a tightly contested finish.
This victory marks Nugent’s final Grand Slam appearance of the season as she now shifts her focus to the upcoming Jamaican Championships.
Reflecting on her performance, Nugent said things clicked at the right time. “My personality was able to be shown out there from Grand Slam. I was able to get some practice in and work on all of the things, and I think I’ve done that, and it shows in both Slams.”
The Jamaican hurdler clocked an impressive 11.11 seconds in the 100 m race, further solidifying her status as a rising force in the event.
For McLaughlin-Levrone, the reigning Olympic and world champion in the 400m hurdles, this meet marked a rare venture into the 100m hurdles, her first attempt at the distance this season and her professional debut in the event.
“There’s just so much around the unknown that can make you nervous. Especially with the short hurdles. I think it’s natural, but that’s part of the challenge, pushing myself out of my comfort zone to do those kinds of things.”
The last Slam of the season, where the Racers of the Year will be determined, will be held in Los Angeles, the final weekend of June at UCLA’s Drake Stadium.
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