From humble beginnings on the couch to gold medal triumph in Tokyo: The extraordinary journey of Tinch
American Athlete Cordell Tinch Wins World Championship in 110m Hurdles
Cordell Tinch, an American athlete, made history on Tuesday at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, winning the 110m hurdles. The victory came after a three-year break from the sport and was dedicated to his mother.
Tinch, who ran for Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg, Kansas, returned to athletics in 2022. During his break, he worked various jobs, including cellphone salesman, paper mill worker, laborer at a moving company, and food delivery gigs. His parents supported him throughout his absence.
The final race was held at Japan National Stadium, where Tinch crossed the finish line with a time of 12.99 seconds. Orlando Bennett of Jamaica finished second, 0.09 seconds behind Tinch, while Tyler Mason of Jamaica finished third.
Tinch attributes his victory to his three-year break from the sport, stating that it allowed him to handle the pressure and lights of a major event like the World Championships. He believes that if he had competed in the World Championships in 2019 or 2020, he would not have been able to handle the pressure and expectations.
The American athlete recalled an indoor meet early in his time at Pittsburg as the moment he realized he needed to return to running. After his victory, Tinch posed for a photo with an American flag, seeing his World Championship win as the first of many accomplishments in his career.
Tinch dedicated his victory to his mother, who he credited for his success. He believes that his athletic talent has always been there, but he was not mentally prepared to carry the pressure and expectations until his return to the sport.
The World Athletics Championships in Tokyo have been a memorable event, with Tinch's victory adding to the excitement. As he looks to the future, Tinch is determined to continue his success in the world of athletics.
