Matthew Hudson-Smith produced an impressive 200m win to back up second place in the 400m as he became the first champion of Grand Slam Track in Kingston, Jamaica
Matthew Hudson-Smith pocketed a cool $100,000 after becoming Grand Slam Track’s first champion and then invited any sceptical rivals to join the upstart competition.
Olympic 400m silver medalist Hudson-Smith delivered an impressive win over 200m to claim the long sprints category having finished a “sloppy” second in his specialist event.
And despite the opening weekend of the new league playing out in front of sparse crowds in Jamaica, Hudson-Smith hailed founder Michael Johnson for providing top athletes with a chance to earn big money.
“Obviously, you’re racing the best in the world and to come back on top, it’s a great feeling,” Hudson-Smith said. “I was excited.
“Honestly, it’s amazing. The organisation exceeded my expectations. I came in here not really knowing what’s gonna happen, but it’s well organised. A lot of talk about the Grand Slam, some negative, but competing and being in it exceeded my expectations and it’s amazing to be a part of.
READ MORE: Grand Slam Track promises new era for athletics but healthy scepticism remainsREAD MORE: Olympian turns down Great Britain after slamming decision he must pay to compete
“Honestly, I encourage all the athletes out there to try it because it is good. It gives you an opportunity against the best in the world. Don’t be scared.”
The Birchfield Harrier was unable to win over the full lap on Friday night, beaten on the line by American Christopher Bailey. But having recently spoken of his desire to break 20secs over 200m, Hudson-Smith produced a storming finish to pip Jereem Richards.
He added: “(It was a) very sloppy first race, it takes a while to get used to it. I’m trying new things, trying new rhythms and I’m trying to push and continue into the next stage. I’m excited for what’s to come, really.”
Elsewhere, Zharnel Hughes took second spot and $50,000 in the short sprints thanks to a third-place finish in the 100m and second in the 200m, with Kenny Bednarek winning both.
Dina Asher-Smith was fifth in the women’s long sprints category having stepped out of her comfort zone to race a 400m as American star Gabby Thomas took an expected victory.
Josh Kerr faded to fifth in the 1500m with fellow Scot Neil Gourley coming fourth as 800m specialist Emmanuel Wanyonyi claimed the win before they compete over the shorter distance on Sunday night.
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Sky Sports launches discounted Premier League package
Sky has slashed the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle in an unbeatable new deal that saves £192 and includes 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.