EUGENE, Ore. — Kenny Bednarek is somewhat new to running the 100-meter race. But that didn't stop him from punching his ticket to the Paris Olympics at this week's U.S. Olympic Team Trials.
With a final time of 9.87 seconds on Sunday, a personal best, Bednarek finished a closer runner-up to Noah Lyles, who had a winning time of 9.83 seconds. Fred Kerley placed third at 9.88 seconds, but all three qualified for this summer's Olympic games in the event.
The 25-year-old Bednarek, affectionately known as "Kung Fu Kenny," posted to social media following his second-place finish:
"I ran the 100m only twice this season. I’m explosive and dynamic, and my finish shows how much of a threat I am. With the 100m in the bag, I’m just getting started. The showing of support I’ve received from fans demonstrates how strong our sport is."
Bednarek is originally from Tulsa, Okla., but moved to Rice Lake, Wis. before attending Indian Hills Community College in Ottumwa. He won a silver medal in the 200 meters in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics behind Andre de Grasse of Canada.
According to the Team USA website, Bednarek "became the first American athlete to break 20 seconds in the 200-meter and 45 seconds in the 400-meter on the same day at the 2019 NJCAA Championships."
Bednarek will also race Thursday night in the first round of the 200-meter men's qualifier. Click here for full results from the 2024 U.S. Olympic Team Trials.