This season, whatever Kenny Bednarek has touched, has become gold. The 25-year-old American sprinter has thoroughly targeted the 100m and 200m events to cement his nomination for the national team bound for the Paris Olympics. Apart from that, being a notable member in the 4x100m relay, he accompanied Noah Lyles and others to confirm the ticket to the big games. Kenny Bednarek’s latest achievement remains the top podium in the Prefontaine Classic last week at the Hayward Field in Eugene. But now, the sprinter is looking forward to US Olympic trials solely.
In his recent X update, the Tokyo Olympic medalist confirmed that he won’t be part of the Raer’s Jamaican Grand Prix, shutting down rumors about his participation. Rather, his ultimate bull’s eye will be to stay in Oregon between June 21-30 to participate in the trials. With that, Kenny has also added, “If there’s a race I decide to run prior, will keep you updated.”
The Raer’s Jamaican Grand Prix is set to roll on June 2. As per several media outlets, Kenny Bednarek was listed to face reigning world champion, Noah Lyles, in the 200m event. However, after Kenny dismissed the participation news, the edge is on Noah Lyles to take the further call on the matter.
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I never entered to run at Raer’s Jamaican Grand Prix. I saw a few articles mentioning my entry and that’s not true. I’m scheduled to run at the Trials next. If there’s a race I decide to run prior, will keep you updated.
— Kung Fu Kenny (@kenny_bednarek) May 27, 2024
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Yet, as the anticipation built, the contest could have been a prestige fight for Noah Lyles. This year, the 26-year-old sprinter is yet to take part in any professional 200m event. Furthermore, last week, in the Atlanta City Games, Noah set the American record in the 150m event by finishing in 14.41 seconds. Nonetheless, Kenny Bednarek holds the world-leading time in the 200m event this season. So it could be the fight of the Titans. But as of now, Kenny has a miniscule chance to counter Noah Lyles before the US Olympic trials. On that estimate, the Tokyo Olympic silver medalist has something on his mind for the upcoming days.
Kenny Bednarek wants to propel his chance with Usain Bolt’s help
In the Olympic season, Kenny Bednarek is trying to explore possible changes needed for the 100m, 200m, and 400m events. The demands of each event are different and heavy preparation is needed to acclimatize with specific needs. Keeping a tab on that part, Kenny has been preparing and has participated in those events in major leagues. While the 100m and 200m events have given him the taste of victory, the 400m events have mixed results for him.
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The 400m event in Pepsi Florida Relays witnessed him take the back seat despite the absence of any such big names in the opposition. Therefore, the Tulsa native is thoroughly looking for external help. As per him, his track and field idol could have been his soul-saver.
Talking about his idol, Usain Bolt, Kenny Bednarek grieved as he had not met Bolt yet. But while confessing his wish, Kenny said, “[it’d] just be nice just to pick his brain and know his thoughts and just see how he was able to accomplish everything he did.” However, the Doha Diamond League winner believes that he has the expertise. Now, all he needs is the execution. The trial in Oregon will provide Kenny Bednarek with a suitable test.