Sha’Carri Richardson is out to prove that she is not just back, but better, after her drug ban.
Sha’Carri Richardson, the American sprinter who was suspended from the Tokyo Olympics for testing positive for marijuana, is determined to prove that she is not just back, but better after the drug suspension.
Richardson, who had been considered a favorite to win the gold medal in the women’s 100-meter dash, was barred from the Tokyo Games after testing positive for THC, the psychoactive component in marijuana. The suspension sparked national debate over the fairness and appropriateness of policies that penalize athletes for marijuana use, especially given that the drug is now legal in many states in the US.
After her suspension, Richardson took time out of the spotlight to deal with the fallout from the decision. Now, with her suspension behind her, she is ready to compete again, with a renewed sense of determination and focus.
“I just want people to know that I’m here to stay,” Richardson told NBC’s Today show. “I’m not done. I’m the sixth-fastest woman in history. I’m 21 years old. I’m going to be running at a very high level until my body can’t.”
Richardson has been training hard since her suspension, working on her technique and improving her conditioning. She has also been working with a sports psychologist to help her deal with the emotional fallout from her suspension.
“I’ve learned a lot about myself,” she told ESPN’s Molly McGrath. “I’ve learned how to control my emotions better, I’ve learned how to control my nerves better. I’m in a better place mentally and physically.”
Richardson’s first race since her suspension will be at the Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Oregon, on August 21. She is expected to compete in the women’s 100-meter dash against some of the top sprinters in the world.
“I’m excited to see where I am and to compete against some of the best in the world,” she told NBC.
Richardson’s performance at the Prefontaine Classic will be closely watched by fans, coaches, and athletes alike. Many in the track and field community believe that she is one of the most talented sprinters of her generation, and they are eager to see how she responds to the adversity of her suspension.
In the wake of her suspension, Richardson has become a potent symbol of the debate over marijuana use in sports. Many athletes and advocates argue that policies that prohibit marijuana use are outdated and unfairly punitive, and that they should be re-examined in light of changing attitudes and laws.
For her part, Richardson has been candid about her marijuana use, and has expressed frustration with the rules that led to her suspension. She has also been an outspoken advocate for more humane and practical drug policies, both in sports and in society at large.
“I’m not trying to be an activist, I’m not trying to be a martyr,” she told ESPN. “I’m just speaking my truth, and that’s what it’s all about.”
Regardless of her politics, though, Richardson is first and foremost an athlete, and her return to competition is one of the most anticipated events in track and field this year. Fans will be watching closely to see if she can live up to her potential, and to prove once again that she is one of the best sprinters in the world.
