LIMA, Peru – Auburn rising sophomore hurdler Ja’Kobe Tharp won gold in the 110m hurdles title at the World Athletics U20 Championships Friday in Lima, Peru, as the American clocked a time of 13.05 to break his own U20 American record.
“It is always a wonderful feeling to win,” Tharp said. “I am relieved after a very long season, and I am truly grateful to display my talent and results of hard work, perseverance, and resilience to the world. I do not win alone. I am thankful for everyone who has contributed to my journey including my family, coach and teammates.”
The Rockvale, Tennessee native won his heat in round one with a time of 13.23 to automatically qualify for the semi-finals. He cruised to a spot in the finals with an even faster time of 13.11, winning his heat.
It was an amazing freshman season for Tharp, who won the SEC Championship in May, took silver at the NCAA Outdoor Championships in June, and last month won the USATF U20 Championship.
“After the NCAA season, my coach and I agreed that the next goals were to win the U20 USA Nationals and World Championships,” Tharp said. “Since last August, I have worked so hard on technique, execution and composure as well as improving my focus and competitive mindset. My coach and I do not talk about the times. We do what we believe is necessary preparation to win. If I stick to that plan, the times will come, and they have.”
Auburn’s Marley Raikiwasa also competed at the World U20 Championships, competing in the women’s discus throw for her home country of Australia. The rising sophomore captured the bronze medal with a toss of 56.25m after finishing third in her qualification group with a toss of 52.47m to earn a spot in finals.
For all results from the U20 Championships, visit worldathletcs.org.