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Noah Lyles kicked off his campaign at the U.S. Olympic track and field trials with a dominant performance, winning the preliminary round of the men’s 100 meters. In front of an enthusiastic crowd that included Snoop Dogg and his mother, Lyles clocked an impressive 9.92 seconds, the only sub-10-second time in the heat.
Lyles is targeting a time of 9.7 seconds during the Trials, a goal he believes is achievable based on his training results. “It’s about focusing in, facing the clock, running to win, and letting your body take over,” he said. Confident and relaxed, Lyles showed no signs of pressure, buoyed by holding the fastest 100m time in the U.S. this year.
Olympic silver medalist Fred Kerley also advanced, winning the second heat with a time of 10.03, while Christian Coleman, known for his explosive starts, comfortably won the fourth heat in 9.99 seconds.
Lyles is coming off a stellar 2023 season where he clinched gold in both the 100m and 200m at the World Championships. Reflecting on his bronze medal from the 200m at the Tokyo Olympics, Lyles expressed his dissatisfaction, using it as motivation. “I don’t like that thing,” he said, acknowledging it as a reminder to strive for more.
Entering the trials, Lyles and Coleman were tied for the fastest qualifying time at 9.83 seconds. This season, Lyles has run 9.85, making it the third fastest time in the world. With the semifinals and final of the men’s 100m set for Sunday, anticipation is high for what promises.
