7 hours ago
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WITH A statement win at the Prefontaine Classic yesterday, Jamaican sprint hurdler Ackera Nugent said she is pleased with her form this season but will be taking a month-long break from the track to allow herself time to rest.
Nugent toppled a stacked women’s 100m hurdles field at the Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon, stopping the clock in 12.32 seconds.
She led world record holder Tobi Amusan, who was second in 12.38, and former world record holder Kendra Harrison, 12.50.
Danielle Williams, the other Jamaican in the race, finished fifth in 12.51.
Speaking after the race, Nugent said she was pleased with the result and knew she had produced a strong performance against a top-tier field.
“The race was okay,” she said.
“My allergies are killing me, but I was able to hold it together. I knew that with the ladies I would be lined up with that I have to be at my ‘A’ game. So, I came out here today and followed the instructions of my coach and I executed.”
Nugent has been enjoying an impressive season having won two Grand Slam titles in the inaugural Grand Slam Track season, as well as booking her spot on the Jamaican team for the upcoming World Athletics Championships.
The sprint hurdler said she feels in the perfect shape this season as she continues to gain crucial experience against several of her the sport’s top competitors.
“I’m where my coach wants me to be right now, so being there is really good for me right now,” she said.
“In 2003, I was just turning one year old, so it’s a really good feeling because these are ladies that always show up with each and every meet that I compete at, so getting the feel of them a bit more this season is a great feeling.”
She also announced she will be taking a step back from the competitive scene.
“I’m done until August, so y’all won’t see me until August. Your baby needs a break. I’m gonna try and go clear my nose, and then I’ll probably go out with my friend that lives here.”
To date, Nugent has run 24 races this year, both on the indoor and outdoor circuit.
This includes competition at the World Athletics Indoor Championships where she earned a bronze medal in the women’s 60m hurdles, and a second-place finish at the recent National Junior and Senior Championships.
English (US) ·