Former LSU Track and Field star Sha’Carri Richardson has run through a gamut of emotions over the last week.
Richardson had won the 100-meter dash at the Olympic trials last weekend in Oregon to qualify for the Tokyo Olympics, but now that dream may be in jeopardy after testing positive for a chemical found in marijuana.
Richardson accepted a 30-day suspension that ends July 27, which would be in time to run in the women’s relays. USA Track and Field has not disclosed plans for the relay.
Fourth-place finisher Jenna Prandini is expected to take her spot in the event. Richardson joined the “Today Show” on Friday and mentioned that she used marijuana while coping with the loss of her biological mother.
“I was definitely triggered and blinded by emotions, blinded by badness, and hurting, and hiding hurt,” she said, “I know I can’t hide myself, so in some type of way, I was trying to hide my pain.”