The inaugural Grand Slam Track series in Kingston features Jamaican 400m hurdler Rushell Clayton, who is excited about the competition and prize money totaling US$12.5 million. Winners will receive US$100,000, a significant amount for the sport. The series’ three leading hurdlers are set to compete against one another, promising thrilling races ahead.
Jamaican 400m hurdler Rushell Clayton expressed immense enthusiasm as she addressed the media regarding the inaugural Grand Slam Track series in Kingston. Clayton is set to compete in the 400m hurdles event on Friday night, followed by the flat 400m on Sunday. The series comprises four meets, culminating in winners being determined by total points accumulated during the events.
The Grand Slam Track series features a remarkable prize pool of US$12.5 million, with winners receiving US$100,000 and other competitors earning amounts that decrease to US$10,000 for eighth place. Clayton, who has achieved significant success including bronze medals at the 2019 and 2023 World Championships, highlighted the unprecedented prize money available, remarking that it is extraordinary for athletes.
During the media session, Clayton, alongside renowned 400m hurdlers Dalilah Muhammed and Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, reinforced the significance of the financial incentives in the sport. She noted, “A hundred thousand dollars we’ve never gotten unless you were Dalilah and you broke the world record,” a statement that elicited a smile from Muhammed. Clayton aims to compete fiercely against both record holders throughout the series.
The lane assignments for the 400m hurdles on Friday include prominent athletes such as Cassandra Tate, Andrenette Knight, and Shiann Salmon. The 400m event on Sunday will similarly feature a strong lineup, with Clayton competing against Muhammed and McLaughlin-Levrone among others. The excitement surrounding the event is palpable as athletes anticipate remarkable competitions and opportunities.
In conclusion, the inaugural Grand Slam Track series in Kingston promises to be a significant event in athletics, showcasing top talent and offering an impressive prize pool. Rushell Clayton’s enthusiasm reflects the growing opportunities for athletes, and the competition among elite hurdlers, including Clayton, Muhammed, and McLaughlin-Levrone, is sure to captivate audiences. As the series unfolds, it will be interesting to monitor the outcomes and the impact of the prize money on competitors’ performances.
Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com
