Track and field has historically been a successful Olympic category for Team USA. And despite the developing news from the arguably best American runner, Noah Lyles, there's plenty of depth. So much so that there was a chance taken with the lineup, and the gamble proved to not affect the ultimate status of the aspiring Olympic goals and dreams.
In the semi-finals of the medal contesting race, 16-year-old Quincy Wilson ran the first leg of the race. The high schooler had a promising start and certainly showed that he belongs on this stage. Unfortunately for him, he wasn't able to keep up the momentum and put the United States at an early disadvantage. However, Vernon Norwood more than made up for it, as he handed the baton off to Bryce Deadman, and Christopher Bailey then ran the final stretch, and the final spot was secured.
The ability of this US roster to more or less toy with the competition shows how strong the overall team is and that there was really little down that they would be strong contenders for a top-three finish when everything matters the most. To be able to finish from what was at one point in seventh position to still crack the top three is nothing short of impressive.
It provided a valuable experience for Wilson but also showed how the veterans of the group, even without Lyles, can more than make up and compete for a top spot on the world stage. Regardless of how others may view the track stars, every four years it's known who will be a strong contender.
And while you may have countries like Jamaica that boast something of a golden generation, the overall consistent ability from the state side leaves an ability for this team to always be in contention. The fact that someone who is yet to be an adult could lead the relay and have a promising showing while showcasing the ability of the three adults to make up the difference is something that no other nation is able to replicate at this point.
Botswana proved to be the favorites heading into the final event. Led by Letsile Tebogo, he was able to position the nation with a strong start. Visibility to come out of the gate and build a lead is something that any other side will fear. Regardless of which leg he ends up running, it's something to be on the lookout for as a strong leg can make up for time that's lost anywhere else.
More reshuffling to come for Team USA
Considering Lyles is most likely finished with his Olympic journey at Paris 2024, a shakeup was going to happen. Everyone knows that the strongest unit for the Americans will be unable to compete this year. But this is true of any potential track and field lineup for any year.
Therefore, it cannot offer a potential reason as an excuse and can't then be used as a reason to provide an asterisk depending on how the final standings pan out. Every country is going through some sort of tribulation, and it's rare for any athlete at this level to be at 100%, let alone each team.
Instead, this is simply part of what competition is all about and why all athletes competing deserve full credit for making it this far. It also illustrates why whoever ends up wearing a shiny object around their neck deserves just those little extra kudos for being able to withstand and outlast where others couldn't. Moreover, it's doubtful that Wilson will race when the metal is on the line for Team USA. Regardless, this is an invaluable experience and should provide a platform for a successful career to come.