Sha’Carri Richardson is an American sprinter who gained significant attention in the sports world. Sha’Carri Richardson ran the fastest women’s 100m time of the year on Thursday at the US Championships in Eugene, Oregon.
The 23-year-old finished the opening heat with a world-leading time of 10.71 seconds as she boosted her chances of qualifying for next month’s World Championships in Budapest.
The time was also a personal best for Richardson. In April, the American had clocked 10.57 secs in the 100m, which was the fourth fastest time in history, at the Miramar Invitational but it was deemed to be wind aided so was ineligible for records.
Her strong performance Thursday, finishing 0.25 secs ahead of second-placed Brittany Brown, qualifies her for Friday’s semifinals.
Richardson’s time beat the world lead of 10.75 secs set by Marie-Josee Ta Lou of Ivory Coast at the Oslo Diamond League last month.
In 2021, Richardson had been expected to be one of the biggest draws at the Tokyo Olympic Games after winning the women’s 100 meters at the US trials, but was barred from competing after accepting a one-month ban for her positive test for cannabis. She later said her action was the result of mourning the death of her mother.
She failed to qualify for last year’s World Championships but looks set to make up for that at this year’s edition – which would be her first global event – with a strong performance at the US Championships which are trials for the World Championships.
Here are some facts about Sha’Carri Richardson
Early Life: Sha’Carri Richardson was born on March 25, 2000, in Dallas, Texas, United States.
Track and Field Career: She began her track and field career while attending Carter High School in Dallas. Richardson displayed exceptional speed and quickly emerged as a standout athlete.
Collegiate Success: After graduating from high school, Richardson joined Louisiana State University (LSU) in 2018 to compete in track and field. She had an impressive collegiate career, winning several titles and awards.
NCAA Championships: At the NCAA Championships in 2019, Richardson set a collegiate record in the 100 meters, finishing with a time of 10.75 seconds. She also helped LSU’s women’s team secure the 4×100-meter relay championship title.
Olympic Trials: In June 2021, Richardson participated in the United States Olympic Trials for track and field. She won the women’s 100-meter event, securing her spot in the Tokyo Olympics.
Suspension: Unfortunately, shortly after her victory at the Olympic Trials, it was announced that Richardson had tested positive for THC, a chemical found in marijuana, resulting in her disqualification from the 100-meter event at the Tokyo Olympics. As a consequence, she received a one-month suspension.
Personal Best: Sha’Carri Richardson’s personal best time in the 100 meters is 10.72 seconds, achieved during the Olympic Trials in June 2021.
Bold Hairstyles: Richardson is known for her vibrant and unique hairstyles. She often sports colorful hair, including bright orange, blue, or red.
Inspirational Figure: Richardson has become an inspiration for many young athletes, particularly for her determination, speed, and unapologetic self-expression.
Future Aspirations: Despite the setback at the Tokyo Olympics, Richardson continues to train and compete. She aims to make a strong comeback and achieve success in her track and field career.