The huge task awaiting Sally Pearson at next month's world championships has been made crystal-clear in a red-hot 100m hurdles in Hungary.
In the first meet of her final buildup to the world titles in London, the 2012 Olympic gold medallist and 2011 world champion was sixth in a race won by US world record holder Kendra Harrison in 12.28 seconds - the fastest time in the world this year.
Harrison finished well clear of second-placed compatriot Jasmin Stowers (12.66), with Pearson sixth in a respectable time of 12.76.
Such was the depth in the field that two-time world indoor champion Nia Ali was last across the line despite clocking a solid 12.83.
Pearson will also compete at upcoming Diamond League meets in London and Monaco ahead of the August 4-13 world titles.
The best of the other Australian performances in the Hungarian town of Szekesfehervar came from long jumper Brooke Stratton, who was fifth with 6.55m.
National record holder Stratton has only recently returned to competition after recovering from a foot injury.
She has yet to record a qualifier for the world championships.
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