At just 16 years old, Australian sprinter Gout Gout is making waves in the world of athletics, drawing comparisons to the legendary Usain Bolt. Last year, at a track meet in Brisbane, Gout clocked a stunning 20.04 seconds in the 200m, breaking Bolt’s long-standing record of 20.13 seconds set in 2003. Far from a one-time achievement, Gout recently returned to the All-School Championships in Brisbane, where he replicated his blistering 20.04-second performance in the 200m.
This time, Gout didn’t just run fast; he made history. His feat shattered Peter Norman’s 56-year-old Australian national record of 20.06 seconds, set during the 1968 Mexico City Olympics. Norman’s mark, which had earned him a silver medal, had stood the test of time for decades until Gout’s electrifying performance. The young sprinter’s achievement has not only put him in the spotlight but also reinvigorated excitement within the track and field community in Australia and beyond.
Gout’s Record-Breaking Performances Ignite Comparisons to Usain Bolt
The track and field world is abuzz with Gout’s potential, sparking debates about whether he could be the next Usain Bolt or forge his own unique path. His recent performances have earned him the title of the second-fastest under-18 sprinter in the 200m, trailing only Erriyon Knighton, who holds the world record of 19.84 seconds at 17. Gout’s speed has not only impressed fans but also reignited hopes for Australia’s presence in the global sprinting arena.
One notable discussion on the track and field subreddit highlighted a tweet from Athletics Weekly celebrating Gout’s accomplishment. The tweet pointed out that Gout is now the national record-holder and has surpassed Bolt’s time at the same age. Fans on Reddit were quick to praise him, with comments like “Absolute showman!” and “It will be good watching his career grow!” reflecting the widespread admiration for the young athlete.
A Promising Future for Australian Sprinting
Gout’s rise has also sparked optimism for Australia’s prospects in global sprinting competitions. Commenters noted the lack of Australian representation in the top 8 of the men’s 100m at the Olympics, dominated by stars like Noah Lyles, Fred Kerley, and Kishane Thompson. Many see Gout as a beacon of hope, capable of putting Australia back in contention on the international stage.
However, not everyone is quick to compare Gout to Bolt. Some caution against such comparisons, emphasizing that Bolt’s records and achievements—eight Olympic gold medals and world records in the 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay—are in a league of their own. Instead, fans suggest allowing Gout the freedom to chart his own course, focusing on his development without the weight of living up to Bolt’s legendary legacy.
What’s Next for Gout Gout?
The young sprinter’s immediate future is just as exciting as his performances. Fans have speculated about his training plans, with some noting that Gout will soon join Lance Brauman’s camp in the United States. This camp is home to elite athletes like world champion Noah Lyles. Gout himself confirmed these plans, stating, “Hopefully, we can qualify for the Tokyo World Championships. If not, I’ll just finish school in year 12.” Balancing his athletic ambitions with his education, Gout remains grounded despite the growing hype around his talent.
As Gout embarks on this new chapter, he has the potential to redefine Australian sprinting and leave a lasting mark on the sport. Whether he becomes the next Usain Bolt or creates his own legend, one thing is certain—his journey is only just beginning, and the world will be watching.