Gout Gout Signs Off in Style as He Breaks Record in Final School Race

Athletics prodigy Gout Gout has concluded his remarkable school sprinting career on a high note, expressing both sadness and gratitude after a record-breaking performance at the GPS Track and Field championships in Brisbane on Friday.

The 17-year-old from Ipswich Grammar School capped off a sensational year by setting a new personal best and meet record in the 400m, clocking an impressive 46.14 seconds.

The victory marked a fitting end to his time as a schoolboy athlete, a journey he credits to his coach, Di Sheppard, and his school.

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Opting to skip his preferred 200m event, Gout Gout focused on the 400m and the 4x100m relay. The decision set the stage for a dramatic one-lap showdown with Brisbane Grammar's Seth Kennedy.

Kennedy had earlier broken Gout Gout's own 200m GPS record with a blistering 20.64s run, and he pushed the Ipswich star all the way in the 400m.

In a thrilling finish, Gout Gout edged out Kennedy (46.64s), with both athletes finishing under the previous meet record.

The performance was a testament to Gout Gout's character, especially after a brief hiatus following the world athletics championships.

Reflecting on his final race at the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre, where he first rose to prominence, Gout was emotional.

"This is the place where I found my speed," he said as quoted by Guardian Sport. "It definitely feels sad, but I’m definitely grateful."

The event was a significant milestone for the young sprinter. It was his last time competing in the iconic red and white singlet of Ipswich Grammar, where he set at least five GPS records during his high school tenure. Now, he looks toward a new chapter on the global stage.

"I just can’t wait to go on that next journey. For me, it’s the world stage," Gout Gout stated, signalling his ambitions for the future.

This final school meet served as the perfect conclusion to a whirlwind 12 months for Gout Gout. In December, he shattered the 56-year-old Australian 200m record held by Peter Norman, running 20.04s.

He later improved that time to 20.02s, won his first senior national title, and reached the semi-finals at the World Athletics Championships, firmly establishing himself as one of the sport's most exciting young talents.