Photo: Getty Images
It has been less than a week since the nation learned that Sha'Carri Richardson would not be able to compete at the 2021 Summer Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan because tested positive for THC during the 2021 U.S. Track & Field Olympic Trials. Her positive test has resulted in a 30-day suspension that would make her ineligible to run in the 100-meter dash, but she would potentially be eligible to run in the 4x100m relay in Tokyo. However, USA Track & Field has decided that she may not run in that event as well.
“While USATF fully agrees that the merit of the World Anti-Doping Agency rules related to THC should be reevaluated, it would be detrimental to the integrity of the U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Track & Field if USATF amended its policies following competition, only weeks before the Olympic Games,” a statement from USATF reads.
“All USATF athletes are equally aware of and must adhere to the current anti-doping code, and our credibility as the National Governing Body would be lost if rules were only enforced under certain circumstances. So, while our heartfelt understanding lies with Sha’Carri, we must also maintain fairness for all of the athletes who attempted to realize their dreams by securing a place on the U.S. Olympic Track & Field Team.”
As expected, this decision frustrated many fans who have come to love watching Richardson run and admired her confident personality. Not to mention, she is currently the fastest woman in America and would give America the best chance at winning the 4x100m relay.
Shortly after the news was shared with Richardson, she took to Twitter to respond. The rising track star quickly acknowledged how her success has pulled in casual fans who will likely be less interested in watching the 4x100m relays without her competing.
In her absence, Gabby Thomas, Kendall Ellis, English Gardner and Aleia Hobbs will represent the United States of America in the women's 4x100m. The Tokyo Olympics will begin on July 23 and run through August 8.
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