Andre De Grasse to race in Metro Vancouver this summer

May 3 2018, 12:37 am

The fastest man in Canada – and maybe someday the world – is returning to Metro Vancouver again this summer.

Andre De Grasse, a triple medallist at the last Summer Olympics in Rio, has confirmed that he will compete at the Harry Jerome International Track Classic June 26-27 at Swangard Stadium in Burnaby.

The 23-year-old from Markham, Ontario – who had to pull out of the IAAF World Track and Field Championships last August – has been battling a hamstring injury ever since.

Missing the World Championships was a crushing blow for De Grasse, as it was his last chance to beat Usain Bolt in international competition and a great opportunity for him to be crowned world champion.

“Seeing the times, I knew I had a great shot to win,” De Grasse told Daily Hive last September. “Definitely was a bummer for me.”

De Grasse returned to competition last weekend, finishing fourth in the 100 metres at the Drake Relays in Des Moines, Iowa. Hopefully, it’s the beginning of a bounce-back season that sees the Canadian become the fastest person on the planet.

The Harry Jerome meet celebrates its 35th anniversary this summer, and a return to its usual home at Swangard. Last year’s event was held in Coquitlam while a newly refurbished running service was installed at the Burnaby stadium.

The track meet, which will be spread out over two days for the first time, will also include a 10-event ‘sprint challenge’ between Canada and China – which De Grasse will compete in.

“I’m privileged to travel to meets all around the world but nothing compares to competing at home in Canada,” De Grasse said after last year’s competition. “I was blown away by the reception of the fans who came to support me, especially all the kids.

“Meets like the Harry Jerome provide a platform for athletes like myself to inspire young people to live healthy active lives and pursue their dreams.”

Tickets for last year’s event sold out three weeks before the event, and organizers expect more of the same this year.

Harry Jerome International Track Classic

When: June 26-27
Time: 6 – 9 pm
Where: Swangard Stadium – 3883 Imperial Street, Burnaby
Tickets: $25 per day – Available via HarryJerome.com

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