In an astonishing turn of events, an untrained runner was chosen to compete in a professional 100-meter race, setting a record for the slowest time ever recorded in such a race. At the 31st Summer World University Games in Chengdu, China, Nasra Abukar Ali, representing Somalia, found herself lined up amongst seasoned athletes. For her, the significance of the moment was undoubtedly overwhelming, as she stood shoulder to shoulder with athletes who had devoted years to honing their skills.
A Painful Struggle on the Track
As the starting sound fired and the runners surged forward, it quickly became apparent that Abukar Ali was struggling to keep pace. Clad in Somalia’s traditional blue colors, she lagged behind her competitors, falling completely out of the camera’s frame as they raced ahead. The race that had held the promise of being a grand moment for Abukar Ali transformed into a challenging ordeal that tested her endurance and determination. Participating in the third heat of the 100-meter event, Brazil’s Gabriela Silva Mourao emerged victorious with a swift time of 11.58 seconds—almost half of Abukar Ali’s time.
Controversy, Criticism, and Apologies
As footage of the race circulated, many questioned the decision to include Abukar Ali. Criticisms about lack of preparation were voiced, and social media was abuzz with disbelief. Some likened the scene to a comedy skit, while others empathized, suggesting that everyone deserves a chance. The controversy ignited discussions about fairness, opportunity, and the integrity of competitive sports. The backlash led to the Somali Athletics Federation and World University Games being contacted for their take on the matter. In response, Somalia issued an apology for sending an untrained runner to a prestigious event. The apology acknowledged the disappointment the incident had caused and underscored the need for more thorough selection processes to ensure that athletes are well-prepared for the challenges of the global stage.
Tony Hawk Did His Historic 900 Spin Trick Move Back in 1999
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater video games became super popular, and it’s no wonder since the name behind the series is the most legendary skater out there. Tony Hawk rose to stellar popularity after he proved his mastery of the board by becoming the first-ever skateboarder to land a 900 spin on camera in 1999.
Tony Hawk and the 900 Spin
Tony Hawk is now 55 years old, but he remains a skateboarding legend, and through his career, he has inspired millions of kids across the world to try and skate in order to reach greatness like him. Hawk started getting into skateboarding at the age of nine and never lost that passion. Still, it was that moment on June 27th, 1999, that distinguished him and his talents and placed him on another level.
The epic stunt was done at the 1999 X Games during the Best Trick competition. Hawk stepped up to the ramp, and a few seconds later, he made history. Apparently, back then, there were rumors and murmurs that people were landing 900s, but it was just an urban legend that no one had seen. That was until Tony Hawk came along and changed that once and for all.
A 900 Is Still Difficult
A 900 in skateboarding is when the skater does two and a half spins on the board and lands successfully. Such a trick had never been caught on camera before, and that is due to the simple fact that it is incredibly difficult to pull off. This is very much backed by the fact that to the present day, there are just four people who have ever managed to land a 900.
Back in 1999, the crowd went wild after the history-making moment when Hawk successfully touched the ground. What was not a surprise to anyone back then is that right after his performance, Hawk said that was the best day of his life.