Two-time Olympic champion Michael Johnson, believes Dina Asher-Smith has what it takes to excel in the one-lap race.
Johnson expressed his belief that Asher-Smith’s skill set lends itself well to the 400m, a race that demands both speed and endurance.
UK’s sprint star, Dina Asher-Smith prepares for a new challenge in the 400m at the Grand Slam Track Meet in Kingston, Jamaica, this weekend.
Asher-Smith, a force in 100m and 200m, is now expanding her range by stepping up to the 400m.
“I’ve always thought that Dina could be a really good 400 runner,” said Johnson as quoted by Daily Mail.
“We know she’s a strong 200m runner, and I’ve always felt the 400m could be Dina’s next challenge.”
Johnson’s confidence in her abilities adds a sense of anticipation for her 400m debut.
Asher-Smith will compete against elite athletes like Marileidy Paulino and Olympic 400m silver medalist Salwa Eid Naser.
Despite limited experience, Asher-Smith has made progress in the 400m, posting a promising 51.2s split at Texas Relays.
She now targets maximum points in both 200m and 400m to clinch the Grand Slam Track title.
Grand Slam Track awards $100,000 to category winners, with lucrative prizes for all top finishers.
Johnson champions bigger payouts, arguing track stars deserve proper compensation for their elite dedication and performance.
“There aren’t a lot of those medals out there. Athletes dedicate years to the sport, with only one chance every few years to win a medal, but few succeed,” Johnson explained.
Johnson pushes for athlete earnings beyond medals, making track careers financially sustainable long-term.
“That is what I want for these athletes and that is what we are doing at Grand Slam Track,” he said.
The Grand Slam Track Meet in Kingston is the first of four exciting events in this revolutionary series.
