Sha’Carri Richardson knows how to make an entrance. And she knows how to finish a race.
Just before she got in the blocks for the final of the 100 meters at the U.S. championships, she took off her orange wig and tossed it to the track behind her, much to the delight of the fans at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon.
She then overcame a poor start and ran down the field to win the race in 10.82 seconds, grabbing the tape as she crossed the finish line.
Richardson continued at almost an all-out sprint for another 100 meters, then doubled back to wave to the crowd and eventually, climb into the stands to hug her family members.
It was reminiscent of her victory here in 2021, a result which was removed from the records after she tested positive for marijuana.
“Well I’ve been a champion, that’s for one,” she told NBC commentator Lewis Johnson after the race. “But the thing I remember the most, I think I stood here on this stadium with you and I did an interview when I knew I wasn’t ready to do one. Now I stand here with you again and I’m ready. Mentally, physically, and emotionally, and I’m here to stay. I’m not back, I’m better.”
Brittany Brown was second in 10.90, and Tamari Davis was third in 10.99. Oregon high schooler Mia Brahe-Pedersen, who just finished her junior year, finished seventh in 11.08.
Richardson did not speak to other reporters after the race. She said she would speak on Sunday after she is done competing in the 200 meters.
Richardson will be on Team USA competing next month at the World Championships in Budapest, Hungary.
The Last Official Finisher of the Boston Marathon is a writer and editor living in Eugene, Oregon, and her stories about the sport, its trends, and fascinating individuals have appeared in Runner’s World since 2005. She is the author of two popular fitness books, Run Your Butt Off! and Walk Your Butt Off!
