McLaughlin breaks world record at Olympic trials, says God told her ‘just focus on me’
Written by G Njuguna on July 6, 2021
New world record in the women’s 400-meter hurdles American hurdler and sprinter Sydney McLaughlin gave glory to God after setting a new world record, saying her faith helped lead her to victory.
Sydney, 21, set her goal on qualifying for the Tokyo Olympics as she competed in the U.S. Olympic Track and Field 400-Meter Hurdles Trials in Eugene, Oregon, on Sunday 27th June 2021. Not only did she make it on the team for the Tokyo Olympics, but she also set a world record with a time of 51.90 seconds, becoming the first woman ever to complete the hurdles in less than 52 seconds.
“Honestly, this season, just working with my new coach and my new support system, it’s truly just faith and trusting the process. I couldn’t ask for anything more and truly it is all a gift from God,” she declared.
The trial was her fourth 400-meter hurdle in the season, and she said that “having that child-like faith and trusting that everything is going to work out” is what helped her get through.
“I think I was growing into my own person. And I think the biggest difference this year is my faith, trusting God and trusting that process, and knowing that He’s in control of everything. As long as I put the hard work in, He’s going to carry me through. And I really cannot do anything more but give the glory to Him at this point.” said McLaughlin who is is very outspoken about her Christian faith on social media.
Sydney McLaughlin smashed the women’s 400m hurdles record with a stunning performance of 51.90 seconds to win the U.S. track and field Olympic trials on Sunday, June 27. Photo Credit: Watch Athletics
McLaughlin managed to beat the reigning U.S. Olympic and world champion, Dalilah Muhammad, who set the record in 2019 at the 400m hurdles at 52.16 seconds. This year, however, Muhammad finished second, which also qualified her for the Olympic team. The two women will go head to head for the gold in Tokyo.
