
Jamaican sprint sensation Bryan Levell lit up the track in Budapest on Tuesday evening, delivering a blistering 19.69 seconds in the menās 200m to set a new meet record at the 2025 Continental Tour Gold. In a performance that combined precision, power, and poise, the 22-year-old confirmed himself as one of the rising stars of world sprinting, leaving a strong international field chasing in his wake.
From the moment the gun sounded, Levell exploded out of the blocks, attacking the bend with trademark aggression. His smooth but forceful stride carried him into the home straight with a noticeable advantage, and from there, it was all about maintaining rhythm.
Despite the challenge from American and European sprinters in the closing stages, Levellās top-end speed never wavered. As he crossed the line, the stadium clock flashed 19.69 ā a time that not only shattered the previous meet record but also marked one of the fastest performances globally this season.
The Budapest crowd erupted in appreciation, recognizing the magnitude of the run. The previous meet record, set several years ago, had been considered a challenging mark to beat, especially in early August conditions. Levellās achievement was even more impressive considering he faced a slight headwind on the curve, making the time a testament to his growing strength and maturity as a sprinter.
Speaking after the race, Levell radiated confidence but remained grounded.
> āI came here knowing I was in good shape,ā he said. āThe goal was to execute my race plan, and I felt everything come together perfectly tonight. Iām grateful to my coach, my team, and the Jamaican fans who always push me to be better.ā
Levellās season has been on a steep upward trajectory. Just a year ago, he was battling for recognition in a competitive Jamaican sprint landscape.
Now, with multiple sub-20 performances and a Continental Tour Gold victory under his belt, he is firmly in the conversation for major championship medals. His technique ā particularly his efficient transition from bend to straight ā has drawn praise from analysts, who see him as a blend of raw speed and technical discipline.
The race also served as a key form check ahead of the upcoming World Championships. Budapest has historically been a fast track for sprinters, and Levellās record-setting time sends a clear warning to his rivals that he is peaking at the right moment. With the likes of Noah Lyles, Erriyon Knighton, and other elite 200m men in the global mix, the stage is set for a blockbuster showdown later in the season.
In addition to Levellās heroics, the Budapest meet offered a string of top-class performances across other events, but his 19.69 was the undisputed highlight. It wasnāt just the time that stood out ā it was the authority with which he controlled the race. By the 150m mark, it was clear that the result was no longer in doubt.
As the Jamaican flag waved proudly in the stands, Levell took a slow victory lap, soaking in the applause. He has not only written his name into the Budapest record books but also sent a message that the new generation of sprinters is ready to challenge the established order. If Tuesday night was any indication, Bryan Levellās best is yet to come ā and the world should brace for even faster times.
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