She’s only 17 years old, but Sydney McLaughlin is catching the eyes of the track world.
The American Olympian just barely qualified for Tuesday’s 400-meter hurdle semifinals on Monday after a sub-par qualifying heat, but admitted afterward she was overwhelmed by the circumstances — and who could blame her?
Being an Olympian at any point must be overwhelming in its own right, but being 17, being sick (she said she’s battling a cold) and having your routine and start time delayed by torrential downpours and wet track conditions is a lot to handle.
Still, McLaughlin posted a time good enough to advance, and knows she’ll have to “try a little bit harder” Tuesday. A good performance Tuesday sends her to Wednesday’s final. Given her poise and self awareness, we wouldn’t bet against her.
Here’s how you can catch Sydney McLaughlin compete in the women’s 400-meter hurdles semifinal.
When: Tuesday, Aug. 16 at 8:10 p.m. ET
Watch: NBCOlympics.com
Thumbnail photo via Geoff Burke/USA TODAY Sports Images
