Australian teenage sprint sensation Gout Gout has declared his legs are 'ready to rumble' as he prepares for his major international debut at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo on Wednesday. The 17-year-old will contest the 200m, and despite some nerves, he is confident in his preparation.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Gout compared his readiness to Formula 1 cars warming up their tyres. 'They'll be just … ready to rumble, that's what they'd say,' he said, gesturing with his hands. He admitted to having 'a few butterflies' but emphasised he has done the work to earn his place.
Gout's primary goal in Tokyo is to improve his personal best of 20.02 seconds. 'Hopefully if I can make it to the semis, that's even greater, and then if I make it into the final that's a big success,' he said. The year 12 student is also considering studying psychology at university, with a focus on sports application.
He revealed he has been working on his mindset to perform at his best. 'Just telling myself that I deserve to be here, I'm in the same boat as everyone else,' he said. Gout also shared advice from American sprinter Noah Lyles, who told him to 'learn how to say no' to manage his time and commitments.
