Sha’Carri Richardson: Running with Joy and Queer Sports Excellence

In a triumphant return to the track, Sha’Carri Richardson, known for her boldness and swagger, has once again asserted her dominance in the world of athletics. This year, when she clinched the 100 USA Track & Finals title, she confidently declared, “I’m not back, I’m better.”

Who is Sha’Carri Richardson?

She burst onto the national scene at the 2021 Olympic trials, capturing hearts before a positive drug test disrupted her Tokyo dreams. However, this track season, she’s been nothing short of spectacular. She achieved two personal bests and, just last month, claimed the title of “World’s Fastest Woman” by winning the 100 at the 2023 World Track and Field Championships in Budapest. Richardson’s achievements include leading the U.S. to gold in the 4×100 relay and securing a bronze in the 200.

But what sets Richardson apart transcends mere seconds on the clock; it’s an abundance of joy. Even after finishing fourth at The Prefontaine Classic, she wore a bright smile and spoke of her renewed love for the sport. She admitted, “I feel like for a while, I saw this sport more as a job than the love I knew I had for it. I’m just whole all over again.”

Track Legeue Finals

The Prefontaine Classic, typically held in late May, was moved to September this year as the Diamond League final, designed for TV with only finals and no heats. Richardson’s rival, Shericka Jackson of Jamaica, claimed victory in the 100, with Ivory Coast’s Marie-Josee Ta Lou and Jamaican Elaine Thompson-Herah following closely. Richardson, who finished fourth, embraced her competitors’ greatness and expressed excitement about competing at the Olympics next year.

Is She Queer?

Sha’ has been openly queer online before the spotlight, according to fans digging out her X posts. She has said she was bisexual back in 2017. In 2021 she openly thanked her girlfriend after winning the 100-metre on day two of the 2020 USA Olympics.

Richardson emphasized that her joy goes beyond winning races. She attributed her happiness to inner growth, a supportive community, and a newfound love in her life. Her positivity radiated, drawing smiles and hugs from those around her. As she looks forward to the next season and the 2024 Olympics in Paris, Richardson’s determination, happiness, and commitment to the 100 and 200 events shine brightly.

Despite her occasional media aversion and public criticism, Richardson’s message after an outstanding season was clear and filled with optimism: “The best is yet to come. I’m only 23, so just wait and see.”

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