Amusan claims gold, sets new record at Athletics Open in Taiwan

Nigerian hurdler Tobi Amusan delivered a commanding performance to win gold in the women’s 100m hurdles at the New Taipei Athletics Open in Taiwan on Saturday.

Amusan claimed first place ahead of Taiwan’s Bo Ya Zhang, who finished second in 13.17 seconds, while compatriot Yi Po-an secured third position with a time of 13.37 seconds.

The 29-year-old crossed the line in 12.72 seconds, setting a new meeting record and shaving 0.08 seconds off the previous mark of 12.80 seconds set by American Olympic silver medallist and former world champion Nia Ali.

Amusan had already shown her dominance during the qualifying rounds, comfortably winning Heat 2 before carrying that form into the final.

She took control of the race after the fourth hurdle and steadily pulled away from the field, leaving Zhang trailing behind.

The three-time African champion produced a remarkable finish, crossing the line before the last competitor had cleared the final hurdle, drawing loud cheers from spectators.

The achievement marks the second time this season that Amusan has broken a meeting record, having previously set a new mark in the women’s 100m hurdles at the Rabat Diamond League.

The Nigerian star has now won three of her five races this season and has maintained a perfect record of podium finishes throughout the campaign.