LIMA, Peru — In an exciting development at the World Athletics Under-20 Championships taking place in Lima, Peru, Jamaican sprinters Deandre Daley and Gary Card have secured their spots in the highly anticipated men’s 100m final. Their performances on Tuesday’s semi-final races set the stage for an exhilarating showdown on Wednesday.
Deandre Daley clinched victory in his semi-final heat, clocking in at an impressive 10.34 seconds despite a headwind of 0.9 m/s. Gary Card also showcased his sprinting prowess, finishing third in his semi-final with a commendable time of 10.39 seconds against a headwind of 0.6 m/s. Both athletes will be rooted on by fans and supporters as they aim to emulate or even surpass the silver medal feats achieved by Bouwahjgie Nkrumie in Cali, Colombia, two years ago.
The semi-final heats were fiercely competitive, with Thailand’s Puripol Boonson emerging as the fastest qualifier, posting a time of 10.30 seconds. Close on his heels were South African sprinters Bradley Nkoana and Bayanda Walaza, who registered times of 10.30 seconds and 10.33 seconds respectively.
For Jamaica, the pursuit of glory in the men’s 100m at the World Under-20 Championships has a storied past. The last Jamaican to clinch gold in this event was Dexter Lee, who successfully defended his title in Moncton in 2010. Interestingly, Claude Grant, the coach behind Lee’s success, is also guiding Daley as they seek to recreate that golden moment in Lima.
As the competition heats up, all eyes will be on these young Jamaican sprinters, who carry the hopes of their nation on their shoulders. Their journey continues on Wednesday, and their performances could once again elevate Jamaica’s status in the world of youth athletics.
