South Dallas-raised Sha’Carri (sha-KERRY) Richardson lit up the U.S. Olympic Trials in Eugene, Oregon, on Saturday (June 19, 2021) where she landed her first Olympics berth in a dominant 100 meter dash victory with a time of 10.86 seconds. She will compete to qualify for the 200 metre later this week.
Immediately following the win, the 21-year-old Richardson headed into the stands where she gave her grandmother, Betty Harp, a long and heartfelt hug.
In an interview on her victory, Richardson, who went pro following her freshman year at Louisiana State University and is sponsored by Nike, revealed, “I’m still here. Last week, finding out my biological mother passed away and I’m still choosing to pursue my dreams, still coming out here to make the family that I do have on this Earth proud.”
Known for her long lashes, colorful hair and long nails, Richardson has drawn comparisons to Florence “Flo Jo” Griffith Joyner who set world records in 1988 for both the 100 and 200 meter that still stand.
Richardson is hoping to become the first American to win gold at 100 meters since Gail Devers in 1996.
The 2020 Summer Olympics, also known as Tokyo 2020, will be held from July 23, 2021 through August 8th in Tokyo.
Check out her race below plus a video in which Richardson comments on her mindset when it comes to competing.
REMEMBER THE NAME.
— #TokyoOlympics (@NBCOlympics) June 20, 2021
Let us introduce you to the newest member of the U.S. Olympic Team: Sha’Carri Richardson.@usatf | #TrackFieldTrials21 x #TokyoOlympics pic.twitter.com/O2wvaRgI8X
This ❤️
— On Her Turf (@OnHerTurf) June 20, 2021
Sha’Carri Richardson embraces her family after qualifying for her first Olympic Games.#TrackFieldTrials21 | #TokyoOlympics pic.twitter.com/4nvDFi2iYD
