Many major storylines emerged from the 2024 Bell Canadian Olympic Track and Field Trials in Montreal, but one that stood out was the impressive performance of Calgary sprinter Keon Rude. Rude accomplished a rare feat by winning both the U20 men’s 100m and 110m hurdles events at nationals.
Rude began his remarkable weekend by winning the U20 100m title on Friday night, finishing with a time of 10.56 seconds. He followed it up with a personal best performance of 13.84 seconds in the 110m hurdles on Saturday evening. His hurdles time was well under the U20 world championship standard of 14.20 seconds, likely securing him a spot to represent Canada in Lima, Peru, at the end of August.
Last month, Rude achieved the U20 100m standard of 10.55 seconds at the Edmonton Athletics Invitational, where he set a personal best of 10.43 seconds. If the U20 world championship schedule permits, the 19-year-old from Calgary plans to compete in both events. The qualification window closes on Aug. 4, and the official team selection will be announced on Aug. 7.
When asked about his event preference post-race, Rude told Canadian Running that he favours the 100m. “The 110m hurdles always hurts my body a little more,” Rude laughed. “It feels good to win them both, but the 100m has more swagger.”
According to CTV News Calgary, Rude did not start track and field until high school. He initially took up track to improve his speed for high school football, but discovered he had a natural talent for the sport. Now a double Canadian U20 champion, Rude has found his niche in track and field.
He currently trains with the Calgary International Track Club under acclaimed Canadian sprint coach John Cannon, who has coached with Team Canada at four Olympic Games. Rude’s dedication and impressive performances have made him a standout athlete and a promising name to watch at the 2024 World U20 Championships in Lima in August. Canadian track and field fans will undoubtedly keep a close eye on his progress as he competes on the world stage later this year.
