Sometimes telling stories and sharing anecdotes isn’t enough, kids have to learn the hard way. On Friday at the U18 European Championships, a 16-year-old sprinter from Great Britain found out the dangers of celebrating too early in a very funny way. You’d never guess how bad it was.
Jake O’Day-Jordan was clearly the most talented sprinter in the fourth race of the 200m and was not far behind the others, as he held a large lead by the time they reached the final straight. Felt He could walk it — emphasis mine Felt.
O’Day Jordan took his foot off the gas with about 25 meters left in the race, confident he’d make it. The problem was, he didn’t seem to notice anyone around him, let alone the competitors speeding past him at the finish line.
By the time the sprinters realized they were in danger, there wasn’t enough time to pick up speed and catch up, so O’Day Jordan dropped out of the race in fourth place.
If there’s a silver lining to all of this, it might be that next time the option to celebrate early opens up, he won’t be in a bind.
