Gabby Thomas (R) and Cambrea Sturgis sprint in the women's 200m/ HANDOUT
Olympic 200m champion Gabby Thomas lit up the track with a blistering world-leading 21.89 in her debut on Kenyan soil at the Kip Keino Classic on Friday evening.
Thomas powered down the home straight with trademark fluency, fending off compatriot Cambrea Sturgis, who clocked a sharp personal best of 21.94 in second.
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Kenya’s Millicent Ndoro completed the podium in third, dipping to a personal best of 23.21.
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The American star was full of praise for the electric atmosphere inside Nyayo National Stadium, where fans roared her down the straight.
“It was great. Honestly, it’s really a nice place where you can compete. I am happy with my times,” Thomas said.
Having already struck gold in the 100m earlier in the meet, Thomas revelled in completing a dominant sprint double.
“It’s incredible for me to win both the 100m and 200m. You cannot control the conditions so in sport,” she added.
With the season gathering pace, the Olympic champion made her intentions clear.
“The goal is to keep winning. Focus on winning and the times will come.”
Sturgis, meanwhile, soaked in the experience of competing on Kenyan soil, describing the moment as both special and motivating.
“I absolutely enjoyed myself. Competing here has been an honor and I will definitely be back,” she said.
The American also pointed to the physical edge Thomas holds on the track, particularly her stride length.
“I would say her height made a big difference in the race today because Gabby is a bit tall and she makes long strides.
“We work together in training with Gabby and she pushes me.”
Despite finishing second, Sturgis walked away encouraged, already plotting improvements as the campaign unfolds.
“However, I’m content with my execution and I’ll just work on the finer details as I build up for what’s to come this season.”
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