Local News
Rai Benjamin Stuns Karsten Warholm to Claim Men’s 400m Hurdles Gold
Kyron McMaster of the British Virgin Islands delivered a standout performance at the Paris Olympics today, August 9, 2024, clocking a season’s best of 47.79 seconds to secure 5th place in the fiercely competitive men’s 400m hurdles.
In a race that had the world on the edge of its seat, Rai Benjamin of the United States dethroned Norway’s Karsten Warholm, the world record holder and defending Olympic champion, by surging to victory with a blistering time of 46.46 seconds, seizing the gold and etching his name in Olympic history.
From the start, Warholm surged ahead, true to his reputation as one of the fastest starters in the sport. Brazil’s Alison dos Santos also began with a blistering pace, quickly closing the stagger and positioning himself as a key contender.
As the athletes rounded the final bend and entered the home stretch, it became clear that this race would be a battle of endurance as much as speed. Warholm, despite his explosive start, began to show signs of fatigue. Benjamin, however, had timed his race to perfection, powering ahead of Warholm in the final meters.
Benjamin crossed the finish line in 46.46 seconds, securing his first Olympic gold and dethroning the reigning champion. Warholm, visibly exhausted, managed to hold on for silver, clocking in at 47.06 seconds. His frustration was palpable as he let out a yell upon crossing the line, knowing his title had slipped away.
Alison dos Santos claimed the bronze medal with a time of 47.26 seconds.
The race also featured strong performances from other competitors. France’s Clément Ducos, fueled by the roaring support of the home crowd, delivered a commendable effort. Abderrahman Samba of Qatar was also in the mix, pushing hard in his quest for a podium finish.
Warholm’s world and Olympic record of 45.94 seconds, set in Tokyo, remains untouched. However, tonight belonged to Rai Benjamin, who proved that even the mightiest champions can be dethroned.