Ja’Kobe Tharp Shatters 110-Meter Hurdles World Record at 2026 NCAA Championships
In a remarkable display of athleticism, Auburn University junior Ja’Kobe Tharp shattered the 110-meter hurdles world record with a stunning time of 12.75 seconds at the 2026 NCAA Outdoor Track & Field Championships in Eugene, Oregon. Tharp, the reigning NCAA and US champion, dominated the field in the semifinals, crossing the finish line five meters ahead of his competitors. The 20-year-old athlete was visibly shocked and elated when he saw his record-breaking time displayed on the scoreboard, throwing his arms in the air in disbelief.
The official time of 12.75 seconds marked a significant improvement of .05 seconds on the previous world record set by American Aries Merritt in 2012. Tharp, who initially thought he had run a 12.98 or 12.97, expressed his astonishment at his performance during an interview, emphasizing that he was speechless and at a loss for words. Despite acknowledging that his race was not flawless, Tharp credited his coach's advice to execute the race plan.
Tharp's record-breaking run not only surpassed his personal best but also made him one of the few collegiate athletes to break the 13-second barrier in the 110-meter hurdles. His achievement at the NCAA championships marked the first time in 50 years that a world record had been set at the event, with the last record being set in 1976 by Long Beach State's Dwight Stones in the high jump. Stones, who was commentating on the event, praised Tharp's historic performance.
The men's 110-meter hurdles final, where Tharp will aim to solidify his record-breaking success, is scheduled for Friday evening. Fans can watch the race and hear Tharp's post-race interview to witness the aftermath of his incredible feat. Join the discussion about Tharp's extraordinary run on the message board and celebrate this momentous occasion in track and field history.