Diamond League Finale 2023: Noah Lyles and Sha’Carri Richardson Shine in Oregon

Get ready for an adrenaline-packed weekend as the Diamond League final touches down in Eugene, Oregon on Saturday, September 16, and Sunday, September 17. This year’s edition promises to be a spectacle with world-class athletes, dazzling performances, and intense rivalries on display.

Headlining the Show

Noah Lyles will be on a mission to secure his sixth Diamond League crown, a remarkable feat that follows his triumphant three-gold performance at the World Championships. But he’s not the only star in the spotlight; joining him is the sensational Sha’Carri Richardson, who will be looking to continue her meteoric rise in the world of sprinting.

British Contenders

British athletics fans have much to look forward to as well. Keely Hodgkinson and Matthew Hudson-Smith, both world silver medallists, are set to chase after one of the 32 coveted diamond trophies up for grabs at this prestigious series-ending meet.

Hodgkinson’s showdown with Mary Moraa and Athing Mu in the women’s 800m promises to be a nail-biter. This trio has developed a fierce rivalry, and each race between them is a thrilling chapter in their ongoing battle.

Global Stars

But it’s not just the Brits who will capture your attention. The lineup includes an array of global stars like Laura Muir, Dina Asher-Smith, and Daryll Neita. They’ll be competing alongside the likes of Faith Kipyegon, Shericka Jackson, Jakob Ingebrigtsen, and Armand Duplantis, promising a star-studded spectacle.

When and Where to Watch

The action kicks off at 19:00 BST on Saturday and 19:30 on Sunday. You can catch the live coverage on BBC Three and the BBC website and app from 20:00 on both days.

A Clash of Titans

This event brings together the biggest names in athletics, less than three weeks after the thrilling conclusion of the World Championships in Budapest. But what exactly is the Diamond League final?

The Diamond League Final

While the World Championships took the spotlight in 2023, athletes from around the world competed in 13 Diamond League meets throughout the season. These one-day events, held in cities like London, Paris, Doha, and Xiamen, offered more than just prize money; they were a battle for points, with the ultimate aim of qualifying for the grand finale in the United States.

In Eugene, a total of 32 Diamond League champions—16 men and 16 women across different track and field events—will be crowned over two days. This year, the final is hosted as part of the Prefontaine Classic at Hayward Field, the same venue that saw the thrilling 2022 World Championships.

Winner Takes All

Unlike the point-based system in previous meets, this final is a winner-takes-all format. The victors not only claim the coveted diamond trophies but also pocket a hefty $30,000 (£24,000) in prize money. Runners-up receive $12,000 (£9,600), with prizes extending to lower positions.

Rivalries to Watch

In the women’s 800m, the rivalry between Keely Hodgkinson, Mary Moraa, and Athing Mu is one to keep a close eye on. Moraa triumphed over Hodgkinson in Budapest, leaving the British sensation eager for redemption as the focus shifts to the Paris 2024 Games.

Matthew Hudson-Smith, aiming for Olympic glory, will seize the opportunity in the men’s 400m, especially with the absence of world champion Antonio Watson.

Sprinting Showdown

The women’s 100m promises fireworks with Sha’Carri Richardson, world silver medallist Shericka Jackson, and two-time Olympic champion Elaine Thompson-Herah going head to head. Dina Asher-Smith looks to regain her form, and Imani-Lara Lansiquot enters with newfound confidence after breaking the 11-second barrier. Daryll Neita, on the other hand, faces the champion Shericka Jackson over 200m.

Noah Lyles’ Quest

Noah Lyles, fresh from winning three golds in Budapest, will focus on the men’s 100m in Eugene. As a five-time Diamond League champion, he’ll be up against tough competition from Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo and fellow American Christian Coleman, who recently clocked an impressive 9.83 seconds in Xiamen.

Other Highlights

Beyond the sprints and middle-distance races, athletes like Faith Kipyegon, Laura Muir, Jakob Ingebrigtsen, and Armand Duplantis will showcase their talents in various events, promising thrilling performances.

Don’t Miss Out

So, set your alarms, mark your calendars, and prepare for an action-packed weekend as the Diamond League final takes center stage in Eugene, Oregon. This is an event that promises to deliver excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments as the world’s finest athletes compete for glory on the track and in the field.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Track and Field Showdown

More about Track and Field Showdown

• BBC Sport – Diamond League Final 2023
• Prefontaine Classic at Hayward Field
• World Athletics Championships 2023 Highlights
• Diamond League Official Website