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Carl Lewis protégé Louie Hinchliffe turns pro after stellar collegiate season and beating Noah Lyles in the Olympic 100m Round 1.
Carl Lewis prodigy Louie Hinchliffe has made the bold decision to leave behind his collegiate career at the University of Houston to pursue professional track and field following an impressive debut at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Hinchliffe's standout performances have not only caught the eye of the athletics world but have also marked a new chapter in his career inspired by none other than his coach and mentor Carl Lewis.
In Paris, Hinchliffe was a key component of Great Britain's bronze medal-winning 4x100m relay team. Despite not advancing to the finals in the 100m event, his times of 9.98s and 9.97s in the heats and semifinals respectively were enough to stir discussions about his future potential in the sport.
“What a season it's been. I've experienced the highest of highs in my first year at the University of Houston. I've become an NCAA champion, a National Champion, and an Olympic Semi-Finalist all whilst living out my dreams as a Cougar," Hinchliffe shared on his Instagram.
The young sprinter expressed profound gratitude toward his coaches and the staff at the University, signaling the end of his amateur phase with heartfelt thanks.
"With that being said, after speaking with my family, I have decided to forego the remainder of my collegiate eligibility and embark on a career as a professional athlete.”
Hinchliffe's time under Carl Lewis at Houston has been transformational and Lewis has previously noted Hinchliffe's rapid progress but maintained that the young athlete still had much to learn.
"He still has work to do. Obviously, he’s only been here nine months but I think he can definitely be one of the best that Britain’s ever had. He’s run 9.95, he can run faster," Lewis stated.
Under the guidance of Coach Lewis and Director of Track and Field, Will Blackburn, Hinchliffe has developed a foundation that seems poised to support a successful professional career.
“I would like to thank Coach Blackburn & Coach Lewis for your belief and support of me. I hope that someday I can give back as much as you both have given to me. I would like to thank the rest of the coaching staff, operational staff, sports medicine department, and our wonderful student managers,” he added in his statement.
The sprinter's departure from collegiate sports marks the end of an era for the University of Houston, where he not only clinched the NCAA title but also led the team to significant successes.
His performances at the Big 12 Outdoor Track & Field Championship and UK Athletics Championship where he emerged as a national champion, have set high expectations for his professional endeavors.
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