Sha’Carri Richardson has etched her name in Stawell Gift history, winning the women’s event from the challenging ‘scratch’ mark. Richardson is only the third woman to achieve this feat, following Bree Rizzo in 2025 and Melissa Breen in 2012. She overcame a significant handicap to claim the title in Australia’s iconic race.
Richardson’s Record-Breaking Run
Starting from the back of the field, Richardson had to run the full 120 metres and overtake all other competitors. The Olympic 100m silver medallist clocked an impressive 13.08 seconds in the final on the uphill grass track. This time marks the fastest in the 148-year history of the women’s Stawell Gift.
Richardson narrowly defeated Australian 19-year-old Charlotte Nielsen, who had a nine-metre head-start. Richardson secured the top prize of 40,000 Australian dollars (£20,900) with her victory.
‘Unbeatable’ Support and Love for Athletics
Despite almost missing the final after easing up in her semi-final, Richardson expressed her confidence during the race. “I think I realised I was going to win right past 90 metres,” Richardson told Australian broadcaster Seven Network.
She also praised the atmosphere of the event. “This is one of the most exciting, fun and entertaining track meets I’ve ever ran in, not even just that, but the love, the true love and support for track and field, unbeatable.”
Coleman Eliminated; Komolafe Wins Men’s Title
Richardson’s partner, Christian Coleman, who holds the indoor 60m world record, also participated in the Stawell Gift. However, the former 100m world champion was eliminated in the semi-finals, finishing fifth in 12.48 seconds.
The men’s event saw Australian 21-year-old Olufemi Komolafe take the title in 11.93 seconds, starting with a five-metre advantage. Jake Ireland, who started at 4.5m, finished as runner-up.
The Stawell Gift featured over 700 competitors and a total prize pool of A$155,000 (£81,000). Other global champions, such as Jamaican Asafa Powell, Britain’s Linford Christie and Australian great Cathy Freeman have competed at the event since it was first held in 1878.