World champions aim to refresh records in Xiamen
With the 2024 Diamond League just two days away, high jumper Hamish Kerr and discus thrower Laulauga Tausaga visited a Wanda Plaza in Xiamen on Thursday to engage with fans and discuss their preparations and aspirations for the upcoming event.
Hamish Kerr of New Zealand competes in the Men's High Jump Final round during the third day of the World Athletics Indoor Championships 2024 in Glasgow, Britain, March 3, 2024. (Xinhua/Li Ying)
Kerr, the New Zealander who clinched his first gold medal last month at the World Indoor Championships in Glasgow with a jump of 2.36 meters, has shown consistent improvement nearly every year since 2016, with 2022 being the sole exception. At the fan meet, Kerr expressed his enjoyment of the energy from the crowd before his jumps. This sentiment was palpable as fans promptly clapped in rhythm, enhancing the atmosphere and showcasing the unique allure of athletics.
When queried about the possibility of setting a new personal and Oceania record at the upcoming competition in Xiamen Egret Stadium, Kerr confidently responded, "My body is amazing," indicating his readiness to push his limits.
Tausaga, who triumphed over Olympic champion Valarie Allman and world champion Feng Bin in Budapest last year with a personal best throw of 69.49 meters, discussed her aspirations to breach the 70-meter mark.
"The facilities here are amazing and we have some of the bests in the world. It is very difficult to chase such a high number but as athletes we don't shoot goal, we shoot high. I'm hoping to reach 70m this year, why not in Xiamen, why not in this place?"
For both Kerr and Tausaga, the Olympic podium is the ultimate goal.
Kerr appeared relaxed when discussing his prospects for the Paris Olympic Games. In contrast, Tausaga, facing intense competition within the U.S. team, outlined her immediate objective: "I can't tell you what I can do in Paris because I haven't made it, this year's goal is to make the team."
Related articles
Gynaecologist who sterilised a female patient without her consent while she was undergoing a C
A consultant gynaecologist who sterilised a new mother without her permission while in a middle of a2024-05-08Caitlin Clark mobbed by fans at introductory Indiana Fever press conference
Caitlin Clark was given a hero's welcome in Indiana on Wednesday morning, as the No. 1 overall pick2024-05-08250,000 Afghan children need education, food and homes after returning from Pakistan, says NGO
ISLAMABAD (AP) — A quarter of a million Afghan children need education, food and homes after being f2024-05-08Quentin Tarantino SCRAPS plans for his final film The Movie Critic which had Brad Pitt set to star
Quentin Tarantino may still make only 10 films in his career, but his last film won't be the project2024-05-08Liberal icon Bernie Sanders is running for Senate reelection, squelching retirement rumors
Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont announced Monday he will run for reelection this year, squelching spe2024-05-08Caitlin Clark fans won't receive Indiana Fever jerseys until August due to Nike blunder
Fans of Caitlin Clark have been dealt with a huge blow, as Fanatics won't be able to ship Nike-made2024-05-08
atest comment