Sha’Carri Richardson Embraces Stawell Gift as a Challenge and Opportunity
US sprint sensation Sha’Carri Richardson is approaching her appearance at the Stawell Gift as an opportunity to test herself, rather than a major event. The 26-year-old, who has won a 100m world title and a silver medal at the Paris Olympics, sees the race as “glorified practice” but is eager to bring her global experience to Australia’s richest footrace.
The Stawell Gift, held in Victoria’s Wimmera region, is a unique 120m handicap race on grass. When first introduced to the idea, Richardson found it amusing and unconventional. However, her curiosity eventually overpowered any initial hesitation.
“I definitely thought it was funny and unique,” she said ahead of the event, which offers a $40,000 prize for the winner. “Being on grass reminded me of what I used to do as a child that led me to loving track and field, which was running and racing in the fields. So I was like, ‘Why not give it a try?'”
Richardson, who has been researching the 144-year-old event, accepted the invitation with the intention of using the trip as part of her preparation for the Brisbane Olympics in 2032. She views the race as a chance to refine her skills and gain experience on different surfaces.
“I still think it’s going to be a glorified practice… but it challenges me to do what it is that I’ve been practicing to do and what we’ve been creating this season,” she said. “I can work on the small things, that way they can translate into big moments and big races.”
She also admitted that the history of the event intrigued her. “I actually did a little bit more research on the history (of the race) and it’s definitely going to be a challenge. But, for me, I love a challenge.”
Richardson will compete alongside her partner and fellow American athlete Christian Coleman, who will also take part in the men’s handicap. Last year’s top performers, Gout Gout and Lachlan Kennedy, are focusing on the national championships instead.
The American pair will race without handicaps, knowing that only two back-markers in each event have ever won the Stawell Gift. This includes last year’s women’s winner Bree Rizzo, who will not be competing this weekend.
Richardson is scheduled to arrive in Stawell on Friday to familiarise herself with the venue and track ahead of Saturday’s heats. She is confident in her ability to win and is determined to leave everything on the grass.
“I believe I can win this weekend and I will do everything in my power to win,” she said. “I’m not going to leave without leaving everything on the grass.”
Her primary focus remains on the Los Angeles Olympics, where she aims for redemption after being narrowly beaten for gold by Saint Lucia’s Julien Alfred in Paris.
“LA is something that is an everyday goal,” Richardson said. “It’s a reminder, motivation to know that the seed you plant today is going to be what it is that shows up when it comes to 2028.”
While the 2032 Brisbane Olympics will see Richardson turn 32, she is excited about her first visit to Australia. The trip will allow her to explore the country and connect with its culture.
“It’s to feel the culture and put our roots here a little,” she said. “We appreciate the opportunity now and when it comes back in 2032, don’t forget us.”
