Say it ain’t so!
Oak Cliff’s own sprinting sensation Sha’Carri Richardson tested positive for a chemical found in marijuana this week, which means she won’t compete in the 100 meters at the Tokyo Olympics later this month.
The 21-year-old Carter High School graduate apologized on NBC’s Today show.
“As much as I’m disappointed I know that when I step on the track I represent not only myself, I represent a community that has shown great support, great love,” she said. “I apologize for the fact that I didn’t know how to control my emotions or deal with my emotions during that time.”
Marijuana is a banned substance by the World Anti-Doping Association and the United States Anti-Doping Association.
Richardson handily defeated her opponents in the 100-meter sprint at the qualifying event in Oregon recently, clocking in at 10.83 seconds. The positive marijuana test disqualifies that time, but Richardson still has a chance to qualify to compete in relay races in Tokyo.
Update: Richardson wasn’t included in the USA Track and Field’s relay team list for the Olympics, and she will not run in Tokyo.
“Don’t judge me, because I am human… I just happen to run a little faster.”
— TODAY (@TODAYshow) July 2, 2021
Sha’Carri Richardson (@itskerrii) speaks with @SavannahGuthrie about her failed drug test. pic.twitter.com/aZKTDhYn6Z