American hurdler Trey Cunningham delivered a career-best performance at the Golden Gala track meet in Rome, winning the 110-meter hurdles in a blistering 12.98 seconds, reports Outsports. The time is the fastest in the world this season and marks the first time Cunningham has broken the formidable 13-second barrier.
The victory was made more notable by the fact that Cunningham arrived in the Italian capital without his luggage. The out gay athlete told reporters he had to rely on a spare kit he always packs in his carry-on, a testament to his professionalism and preparation.
"I had struggles with my travels; my luggage got lost," he said after the race. "But I am always ready. I pack an extra pair of spikes and kit for race day in my backpack."
Cunningham's performance not only secured him a personal best but also erased a 27-year-old meet record previously held by athletics legend Allen Johnson. "This was a long time coming," Cunningham stated. "Beating the meeting record set 27 years ago by Allen Johnson, who is an all-time great, is special."
Cunningham, who came out publicly as gay in 2024, has steadily become one of the most prominent out male athletes in track and field. His recent success in Rome follows a silver medal in the 60-meter hurdles at the world indoor championships earlier this year, cementing his status as a top contender on the global stage.
With this victory, Cunningham now sets his sights on the inaugural World Athletics Ultimate Championship, a new event featuring the top 16 athletes in each discipline competing for a significant $150,000 first-place prize. "I am very excited for the World Ultimate Championships," he said. "The motto this year is to enjoy what is happening right now."
