Matthew Hudson-Smith won the 200m in Kingston, Jamaica and finished second in the 400m, enabling him to win his first ever Grand Slam Track crown in long sprints. Mathew, who collected 20 points in total, solidified himself in the event by showing his class and experience.
However, the competition is getting stronger, and several athletes are closing in. Some of the athletes who finished behind Matthew Hudson-Smith have shown signs of being a serious threat to Matthew.
For example, Jereem Richards from Trinidad and Tobago came very close in Kingston. He finished just behind Hudson-Smith in the 200m, with a time of 20.81 seconds compared to Hudson-Smith’s 20.77. Richards is a former World Indoor 400m champion and has strong finishing speed. He also performs well in 200m and 400m, making him a real threat for the title at the next meet.
On the other hand, Christopher Bailey from the USA also stands out. Bailey won the 400m in Kingston, collecting 12 points, and added more with a solid 200m run. He finished with 16 points, only four behind Hudson-Smith. Bailey’s strength in the 400m and improving speed in the 200m make him a top contender.
Meanwhile, DeAndre Watkin from Jamaica came third in the 200m with 20.91 seconds. He edged out other strong runners like Vernon Norwood and Christopher Bailey by hundredths of a second. Watkin’s consistency in both races puts him in the mix for the title.
Vernon Norwood from the USA also deserves a mention. He finished just behind Watkins and Bailey in the 200m and is known for his 400m ability. If he can improve his 200m performance, he could challenge for the overall title.
However, Matthew Hudson-Smith remains the favourite, but Richards, Bailey, Watkin, and Norwood are closing in. Each has the speed and skill to take the long sprints title if Hudson-Smith slips or if they improve their form.
Moreover, the upcoming Grand Slam Track meet will show if any of them can dethrone the British champion.