In a thrilling race at the Paris 2024 Olympics, the Netherlands secured the gold medal in the 4x400m mixed relay, overcoming the United States in a dramatic finish on August 3, 2024. The event took place at Stade de France under rainy conditions, adding to the intensity of the competition. This victory marks a significant achievement for the Dutch team, who had faced disappointment in previous championships.
The Netherlands team, consisting of Eugene Omalla, Lieke Klaver, Isaya Klein Ikkink, and anchor Femke Bol, clocked an impressive time of 3:07.43. This performance set a new European record and was just 0.02 seconds shy of the world record set by the USA the previous night. Bol’s final leg, completed in 47.93 seconds, was pivotal in overtaking the American team in the last few meters of the race.
The United States team, who had been leading for most of the race, finished with a time of 3:07.74, earning them the silver medal. The team included Vernon Norwood, Shamier Little, Bryce Deadmon, and anchor Kaylyn Brown. Despite their strong start, Bol’s extraordinary effort in the final stretch secured the victory for the Dutch. Team USA had set a world record of 3:07.41 just one night before, making the defeat even more unexpected and dramatic.
Great Britain clinched the bronze medal with a national record time of 3:08.01. Their team was composed of Amber Anning, who delivered an impressive anchor leg time of 48.81 seconds, contributing significantly to their podium finish. The British team managed to outpace Belgium, who finished fourth with a time of 3:09.36.
Bol’s performance was particularly noteworthy, considering her fall in the final meters at the 2023 World Championships, which had cost the Netherlands a medal. “I channeled my anger from Budapest,” Bol stated after the race, reflecting on her determination to redeem herself and her team. Her teammates’ support and her own resolve played a crucial role in their victory.
The race was a nail-biter from start to finish. Vernon Norwood gave the USA an early lead, which Shamier Little and Bryce Deadmon managed to maintain despite the challenging weather conditions. Kaylyn Brown extended the lead further in the final leg, but Bol’s relentless sprint in the final meters turned the tide in favor of the Netherlands.
This win is a significant milestone for the Netherlands, marking their first gold in the mixed 4x400m relay at the Olympics. It also underscores the resilience and competitive spirit of the Dutch athletes, who overcame past disappointments to achieve this historic victory.
The 4x400m mixed relay has been one of the most anticipated events in the athletics program of the Paris 2024 Olympics, showcasing a mix of speed, strategy, and teamwork. The Netherlands’ victory adds to the excitement and drama that the Olympics are known for, highlighting the unpredictable and thrilling nature of the games.
