Gout, Kennedy Eliminated at Rain-Hit Stawell Gift

Australian sprinters Gout Gout and Lachie Kennedy, after winning their heats, were eliminated in the semi-finals of the 2025 Stawell Gift due to tough handicaps and adverse weather conditions. Gout, who received a $50,000 appearance fee, and Kennedy both started well behind front markers and could not overcome the head starts, with John Evans ultimately winning the final. The event was marked by heavy rain, a headwind, and a power outage, which disrupted competition. Fans and athletes expressed frustration with the handicap system, arguing it disadvantaged the fastest runners. Gout and Kennedy showcased their friendship by later racing together in the Chris Perry Memorial Backmarkers Invitation 120m, where both were again defeated. The outcome has reignited debate over the fairness of the Stawell Gift's handicap structure.