Zharnel Hughes Claims Sprint Double at UK Championships

Zharnel Hughes achieved a remarkable feat at the UK Athletics Championships, winning gold in the men’s 200 metres on Sunday in Birmingham. His victory not only earned him the title but also secured a place for him in the upcoming World Championships in Tokyo next month. Hughes, who had already triumphed in the 100m event a day earlier, completed the race in a record-breaking time of 19.90 seconds, becoming the first athlete to run under the 20-second mark at a British championship.

“Winning the 100m yesterday was pretty cool, but I wanted the 200m title more,” said Hughes, who expressed excitement about the upcoming World Championships. “My coach will get me a lot sharper for the Championships – I’m excited to see what I can do in Tokyo.”

Asher-Smith Triumphs in Women’s 200m

In the women’s 200 metres, Dina Asher-Smith narrowly defeated newly-crowned 100m champion Amy Hunt in a thrilling photo finish. Both athletes recorded a time of 22.14 seconds, which set a new championship record. “It was an excellent race; we needed a photo finish because neither of us knew who had won,” Asher-Smith remarked. “But I am happy to come here and run a low-22; it is a fantastic time.”

Daryll Neita, who faced disqualification in the 100m on Saturday due to a false start, finished third in the 200m with a time of 22.30 seconds, securing her eligibility for the World Championships in Tokyo.

Other Championship Highlights

Max Burgin dominated the men’s 800m event, clocking an impressive 1:43.92. Meanwhile, Olympic bronze medallist Georgia Hunter Bell celebrated her first British women’s 800m title with a time of 1:59.53. Hunter Bell is currently weighing her options on whether to compete in the 800m or 1500m events in Tokyo, reflecting on the legacy of great British athletes like Seb Coe and Kelly Holmes who successfully doubled up in events.

“How cool would it be to follow in the footsteps of the great British athletes who did double up and were successful – it’s hard to decide,” she noted.

Additionally, world 1500m champion Josh Kerr made a successful transition to the 5,000m, finishing first with a time of 13:44.73. “It was always going to be tough out there over the last mile, but I really enjoyed the first eight laps,” Kerr said, expressing his enjoyment of the race.

The UK Athletics Championships not only showcased exceptional athletic talent but also served as a critical qualifying event for the World Championships, highlighting the competitive spirit and dedication of these athletes as they prepare for international competition.