Sprint sensation Gout Gout will compete in both the 200m and 4x400m relay at the U20 World Athletics Championships in Oregon this August. The 18-year-old is part of a record 75-strong Australian team set to compete at the historic Hayward Field in Eugene.
Gout, who holds the U20 world record in the 200m, has chosen to prioritize the world juniors over the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. He aims to emulate Usain Bolt, who won 200m gold at the same championships in 2004 before becoming a global icon.
“I’m really excited to get out there at World Athletics Under 20s,” Gout said. “I know it’s a great stadium and place to run fast, and I feel confident I’ll be ready to step up and make Australia proud.” He added that he is also looking forward to joining the 4x400m relay on the final day.
The Australian squad includes high jumper Izobelle Louison-Roe, who won silver at the 2024 U20 championships in Lima. She is entered in both high jump and triple jump and will decide her event later this year. Race walker Isaac Beacroft will back up from the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, stating he has high expectations for both races.
The men’s 4x100m relay team features Paul Ehioghae, Kelechi Ekwomadu, Dylan Hall, Josiah John, Hugh Kabengele, Uwezo Lubenda, and Zavier Peacock. The women’s 4x100m relay includes Grace Crowe, Mackenzie Estlick, Zara Hagan, Amaya Mearns, Leah O’Brien, Thewbelle Philp, Emilia Reed, and Maya Taber.
