With the Olympics on the horizon, the best of the best in the world of track and field converged in London this weekend for one final proving ground before the big dance in Paris: London Diamond League.
If this meet was a sneak preview of what’s in store at the Paris Olympics, let me tell you, we’re in for quite the treat. We’ve got the recap on any of the sparks you may have missed from the London Diamond League this weekend.
Bol Dominates the 400m Hurdles
Returning to the site of one of her previous European record-breaking performances, Bol recorded the second-fastest time of her career. Rushell Clayton kept pace with Bol initially, but Bol pulled ahead in the final 200 meters to win comfortably in 51.30, improving her Diamond League record by 0.15 seconds. Shamier Little took second place with 52.78, followed by Clayton at 53.24.
Throughout the season, Bol has proven her consistency and dominance in the event time and again, positioning herself as a favorite for an Olympic medal in just a few weeks. Following the race, Bol shared her excitement for the upcoming competition in Paris, especially as she looks forward to facing world record-holder Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone.
Pryce and Hudson-Smith Shine
Nickisha Pryce and Matt Hudson-Smith also showcased exceptional form heading into Paris.
Pryce, in her Diamond League debut, set a new Diamond League record in the women’s 400m with a time of 48.57, moving to seventh on the world all-time list. Natalia Kaczmarek finished second in 48.90, with Lieke Klaver, Amber Anning, and Laviai Nielsen all finishing under 50 seconds. Pryce’s impressive performance put a target on her back and marked her as a rising star in the sport.
Hudson-Smith extended his winning streak in the men’s 400m, winning in 43.74 and becoming the first European man to run under 44 seconds. Hudson-Smith will certainly be a favorite for a podium position in Paris.
Hodgkinson Sets British Record
Keely Hodgkinson set a British record on home solid in the women’s 800m. Hodgkinson took the victory in 1:54.61, moving up to sixth on the world all-time list. Jemma Reekie finished second with a personal best of 1:55.61, and Georgia Bell set a personal best of 1:56.28 in third place. Despite being a younger runner, Hodgkinson has consistently delivered top performances in high-stakes environments and will be one to watch in Paris.
Thomas Is Back!
Gabby Thomas is back! Thomas won the women’s 200m in 21.82, setting a meeting record. Dina Asher-Smith led initially, but Thomas edged out Julien Alfred, who set a national record of 21.86. Asher-Smith finished third in 22.07.
Her victory adds to her growing list of accomplishments and makes her a key contender for the Olympics.
Lyles’ Throws Down A Lifetime Best
In the men’s 100m, Noah Lyles achieved a personal best of 9.81, defeating Akani Simbine and Tebogo, who finished in 9.86 and 9.88, respectively. As we saw in the recent docuseries ‘Sprint,’ Lyles may talk the talk, but he’s also proved over and over that he can also walk the walk.
Other Highlights
- The British women’s 4x100m team equaled their national record with a world-leading 41.55.
- Alison dos Santos won the men’s 400m hurdles in 47.18, with Roshawn Clarke and Ismail Doudai Abakar setting a season and personal best.
- Dominic Lokinyomo Lobalu won the men’s 3000m in a meeting record of 7:27.68, the fastest time in the world this year on an outdoor track.
- Ollie Hoare clinched victory in the men’s Emsley Carr mile with 3:49.03.
