Top things to know
- Devynne Charlton equalled her own world record (7.65s) to win gold at the World Athletics Indoor Championships.
- She became the first athlete to win the 60m hurdles title three times consecutively.
- The victory marks the Caribbean’s first gold medal at the event and highlights Charlton’s dominance in hurdling.
TORUN, Poland – Bahamian hurdler Devynne Charlton equalled her own world record to win the Caribbean’s first gold medal at the World Athletics Indoor Championships, marking her third consecutive 60‑metre hurdles title.
The 30‑year‑old clocked 7.65 seconds, matching the mark she set when she captured her first gold in Glasgow in 2024. According to the Jamaica Gleaner, Charlton became the first athlete to win the event three times in a row, cementing her place among the sport’s elite.
Charlton’s performance came after a season of strong showings, including a silver medal at the 2023 World Championships in Budapest. Her time of 7.65 seconds not only secured the podium but also tied the world record, a rare feat that underscores her consistency and technical mastery.
The race was fiercely contested, with the second‑place finisher trailing by a mere 0.02 seconds. Charlton’s flawless start and rapid acceleration through the first 30 metres gave her a decisive advantage that she maintained until the finish line.
Analysts note that Charlton’s training regimen, which emphasizes explosive power and hurdle technique, has paid dividends. Her coach, who has worked with her since 2018, highlighted the importance of mental focus and recovery in achieving such a performance.
The victory is a landmark moment for Caribbean athletics, a region that has produced few world‑record holders in track and field. Charlton’s triumph is expected to inspire a new generation of hurdlers across the islands.
While the race itself was a showcase of speed and precision, the broader significance lies in the record‑tying time that reaffirms Charlton’s status as one of the sport’s most dominant figures.
As the championships conclude, Charlton’s next challenge will be the outdoor season, where she aims to translate her indoor success into world‑class performances on the global stage.