UPDATE: West Australian sprinter Josiah John is set to make waves at the upcoming Perth Track Classic on February 14, 2024, as he targets a qualifying time for the 2026 World Athletics Under 20 Championships. With ambitions soaring toward the Brisbane 2032 Olympics, John is ready to leave his past injuries behind and sprint into the spotlight.
The 18-year-old athlete has faced challenges, including a ruptured hamstring and growth-related ailments, but he’s determined to achieve a qualifying time of 10.50 seconds in the 100m. Just months after a stellar performance at the 2024 Australian All School championships, where he led sprint sensation Gout Gout at both the 100m and 200m finals, John is back and more focused than ever.
“I’ve been off spikes and off track for about two months, but I am finally back on track,” John stated. He is now training under renowned coach Asad Hosseini at the UWA Club, and his commitment is palpable. “The main goal is the world juniors, and I know I can run that qualifying time when I’m at my best.”
With intense competition for relay spots in the Australian team for the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow from July 23 to August 2, John is vying for a position among elite athletes, including Lachie Kennedy and Rohan Browning. “The relay squad is looking really good this year, so it will be hard to make the team,” he acknowledged.
John’s performance at the 2024 All Schools championships ignited his confidence. He won a silver medal in the 200m—setting a new State record—and a bronze in the 100m. “It gave me 100 percent belief that I can do it,” John reflected, recalling how he led Gout Gout during the race. His personal best of 10.27 seconds (with illegal wind) underscores his potential to achieve great things this season.
As John prepares for the Perth Track Classic, he is aware of the pressure but is motivated by his fellow competitors. “Having Gout in front of me is a form of motivation. I know I need to run faster and work harder,” he exclaimed. His journey symbolizes not just personal ambition but also the spirit of teamwork and resilience within Australian athletics.
The Perth Track Classic will not only showcase John but also other talented WA athletes who have already secured qualifying times for the world U20 titles in Oregon. As anticipation builds, fans are eager to see if John can meet his qualifying goal and continue his ascent in the world of sprinting.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Perth Track Classic approaches, and watch live on 7plus for what promises to be an electrifying event.
