Sydney McLaughlin targets first sub-50 seconds run in the 400m hurdles
American track sensation and reigning Olympics and World 400m hurdles champion and record holder, Sydney McLaughlin wants to attempt, once again feats that have never been achieved in the sport.
In July the 23 year old ran 50.68s to break the world record and win the 400m hurdles title at the World Athletics Championships in Eugene, Oregon, USA.
The time is the first sub-51 seconds performance in the event and McLaughlin, one of the 10 nominees for the 2022 Women’s World Athlete of the Year is eager to shift the barrier again to an unimaginable level.
“I also think trying to run 49 in the 400 hurdles would be something people never thought possible. That would also be something to chase,” McLaughlin told Olympics.com.
“So whatever route we decide to go, I think the sky’s definitely the limit for what could happen. But I definitely get excited about things that no one has ever really tried to do before. That’s something that drives me.”
She also told Olympic.com she and her coach have not decided on whether to shift focus to the 400m flat and says competing in the 400m and 400m barrier event at a major championships/Games will depend on the events’ timetable.
“Honestly, my coach and I are still kind of figuring out what we want to do. You know, this season was amazing with the 400 hurdles, but I still think there’s more we’re looking for there,” she said.
