To be the best means to break records. And this is especially prevalent in track and field, where mere seconds determine whether you excel or achieve greatness. But does it apply to school life as well? After all, who wants to be the “Student of the Month” award when you’re out there breaking world records? Well, there just might be someone who wants to take both of these hands in hand. His name is Gout Gout. And at just 17, he is already looking forward to what’s to come.

He came to the scene after breaking Usain Bolt’s record for the fastest 200 meters at just 16 years old. In December, he zipped through the Australian All Schools Championships in 20.04 seconds, leaving Bolt’s 2003 record of 20.13 seconds in the dust. And while he’s out there turning heads on the track, he’s also juggling life at Ipswich Grammar. But that’s not it. Gout Gout has some serious Olympic dreams as well.

The sprinter is eyeing the 2028 Los Angeles and 2032 Brisbane Olympics. But while he’s working toward his Olympic dreams, he’s also preparing for exams. Recently, Gout trained with Noah Lyles in Florida, and afterward, he joined Lyles and Olympic 100m Hurdles champ Grant Holloway on their Beyond The Records podcast. During their conversation, Gout was asked about how he manages his school life while balancing his athletic commitments.

When Lyles asked, “Are you going to train like normal? Like, how’s that going to go about?” Gout shared his routine: “We work at training based on school, so we train after school until 6:00 p.m. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, we head to the track because I train at school, and we have a little garage track.” With such a routine, it is not a surprise that he has been so successful. Six days of training a week! That’s tuff!

As for his upcoming track and field national athletics championships in April, Lyles asked if Gout would still be in school, and Gout responded, “During that time period as well, I think during the championships I’ll be in the last week of term. So, I’ll still be in school, but I should be finished with my exams by then.” But Gout is not just focused on breaking records.

Gout Gout’s bold track and field goals

Gout is somehow focusing on both academics and athletics despite having a packed schedule. He also knows that he is being compared to the great Usain Bolt. But he remained all humble while discussing the possibilities of his future with Noah Lyles. He also shows the same mettle as the fastest man on the planet. And in a brave display, he challenged the Olympic gold medalist Lyles to a race. Truly incredible.

Gout Gout is making sure everyone knows he’s here to win, not just compete. After training with Olympic 100m champion Noah Lyles and his coach Lance Brauman in Florida, Gout is ready to take on the world. He’s aiming for the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, and let’s just say he’s not coming to make up the numbers.

“I’m trying to come out there with a bang,” Gout said, clearly not shy about his goals. And if you think he’s just in it for the ride, think again—he’s all about grabbing that medal in track and field. Lyles showed his determination by completely supporting Gout’s daring objectives. Lyles responded positively to the conversation by saying, “That’s what I love to hear.” 

Gout does not hesitate to pursue top-tier achievement. Gout looked determinedly down the finish line while announcing his goal to win a medal. The track represents more than racing for Gout because he wants to make his permanent mark on its history while running against Lyles or any other competitor. The track may witness him accomplish both athletic goals and historical touchdown records. And who knows, maybe he’ll even break a few records along the way. Keep an eye on this track and field star!