A 16-year-old Australian sprinter, Gout Gout, has become a global sensation after fan-captured footage of his 100m race at the Queensland Athletics Championships went viral. Born in Brisbane to South Sudanese parents, Gout has quickly drawn comparisons to legendary sprinter Usain Bolt, thanks to his extraordinary speed and record-breaking performances.
Early beginnings and rapid ascent
Gout Gout’s journey began at Ipswich Grammar School in South East Queensland, where his raw speed caught the attention of onlookers. After receiving his first pair of spikes, Gout sprinted 100m in an impressive 10.57 seconds at just 14 years old. Recognizing his potential, coach Diane Sheppard took him under her wing and worked to refine his technique.
“Six or eight months ago, he looked like one of those things that blow around in car yards. His arms were out of control,” Sheppard told Athletics Australia in November 2022. She added, “People are quick to comment saying look how bad his start is, but the kid hasn’t even got full control of his limb length yet.”
Breaking records and capturing attention
Within a year, Gout’s hard work began to pay off, and he started breaking national records. He now holds the Australian under-16 records for both the 100m and 200m. In March 2024, Gout clocked a personal best time of 10.29 seconds to win the under-18 boys’ 100m at the Queensland Athletics Championships—a race that has since been viewed by millions online.
Although the record-setting run occurred months ago, the footage gained widespread attention after it was shared on X (formerly Twitter) by user Del Walker. “Read about a 16-year-old Sudanese kid in Australia who ran 100m in 10.2 seconds this year. Found the footage—freakin ridiculous,” Walker tweeted. “His name is Gout Gout, remember the name. No way is this kid not gonna be an Olympian one day.”
Social media buzz and Olympic potential
The video has sparked excitement among fans on social media, with many predicting a bright future for Gout. One user remarked, “It’s like he pressed the 2x speed button halfway into that sprint,” while another commented, “Gout Gout might be the one to break Bolt’s record.” Others speculated on his Olympic potential, with one fan noting, “This is impressive for a 16-year-old. If properly managed, he will dominate the Olympics soon.”
Another fan highlighted his prospects in longer sprints: “With a turn of speed like that after 55m/60m I would like to see this lad run the 200m.” Gout has indeed proven his versatility, having run the under-18 men’s 200m final in 20.87 seconds at the Australian Junior Athletics Championships last year, and recently improving his time to 20.69 seconds.
As Gout prepares to represent Australia at the World Junior Championships in Peru next week, the world will be watching to see how this rising star’s talent measures up on the international stage. “Gout Gout is selected for Australia in the World Junior Championships in Peru next week. Interesting to see how his undoubted talent measures up at that level,” another fan observed. “Might be even quicker when he sorts out his start. Seems up to stand up out of the blocks. Some stride length in full flow.”
With his explosive speed and potential, Gout Gout is poised to make a significant impact on the world of athletics. The world will certainly be watching as this young sprinter’s journey unfolds.