Liévin, France – Dutch hurdler Nadine Visser secured her spot at the upcoming World Athletics Indoor Championships in Toruń, Poland, after successfully meeting the qualifying standard at a meet in Liévin on Thursday. Visser’s performance adds to a growing list of athletes preparing for the championships, scheduled to take place from March 20th to 22nd. The competition in Liévin also saw impressive performances from other athletes, including Keely Hodgkinson, who set a new world record in the 800-meter indoor event.
Visser clocked a time of 7.90 seconds in the 60-meter hurdles, comfortably surpassing the qualifying mark of 7.99 seconds. While she finished second in her heat behind Bahamian Devynne Charlton (7.85 seconds), her time was sufficient to book her place at the World Indoor Championships. She also outperformed European indoor champion Ditaji Kambundji of Switzerland, who finished with a time of 7.97 seconds. This achievement marks a significant milestone for Visser, who has been working towards competing at the highest level of indoor athletics.
Visser’s Road to Qualification
The 2021 European indoor champion on the 60m hurdles, Visser, had a slightly delayed start to her indoor season due to a minor injury. Despite this setback, she demonstrated her resilience and determination by achieving the qualifying time in Liévin. In the final, Charlton further improved her time, winning in 7.79 seconds, followed by Polish athlete Pia Skrzyszowska and Kambundji. Visser finished fifth in the final with a time of 7.88 seconds, still a commendable performance that secured her championship berth. Visser holds the Dutch national record in the event with a time of 7.72 seconds, achieved at the European Indoor Championships last year, where she won a silver medal.
Nillessen Sets New Dutch Record
The Liévin meet wasn’t just about Visser’s success. Dutch athlete Stefan Nillessen also made headlines by breaking the national record in the 1,500 meters. Nillessen finished with a time of 3:33.64, surpassing the previous record of 3:35.61, which was held by Samuel Chapple. His record-breaking run also ensured his qualification for the World Indoor Championships, as he finished well under the qualifying standard of 3:36.00. This performance highlights the growing strength of Dutch middle-distance running.
Hodgkinson Shatters 800m World Record
The event in Liévin was further illuminated by a stunning world record performance from Great Britain’s Keely Hodgkinson in the 800-meter race. Hodgkinson clocked a time of 1:54.87, breaking the previous record of 1:55.82 set by Jolanda Ceplak nearly 24 years ago. The coincidence of Hodgkinson’s birthdate falling on the day Ceplak set the original record added a unique layer to the achievement. Hodgkinson, a four-time European champion (two indoor and two outdoor), and last year’s Olympic champion, continues to solidify her position as a dominant force in the 800-meter event.
A New Rivalry Emerges?
The article from NOS Sport notes that Femke Bol has recently emerged as a potential challenger to Hodgkinson, hinting at a developing rivalry between the two athletes. This adds an exciting dynamic to the upcoming World Indoor Championships and beyond, as fans anticipate potential head-to-head matchups between these rising stars.
Looking Ahead to Toruń
With Visser and Nillessen now qualified, the Dutch team is shaping up for a strong showing at the World Indoor Championships in Toruń. The championships will provide a platform for athletes from around the globe to compete at the highest level of indoor athletics. The event, scheduled for March 20-22, promises thrilling competition and the opportunity to witness world-class performances. The city of Toruń, Poland, will host the event, offering a unique atmosphere for athletes and spectators alike.
Nadine Visser’s qualification is particularly noteworthy given her recent injury and her determination to return to form. Her performance in Liévin demonstrates her commitment to excellence and her potential to contend for a medal at the World Indoor Championships. Stefan Nillessen’s record-breaking run further underscores the depth of talent within Dutch athletics. The success of both athletes in Liévin bodes well for the Dutch team’s overall performance in Toruń.
The World Indoor Championships represent a crucial opportunity for athletes to showcase their skills and compete for global recognition. The event will attract a large audience of fans and media representatives, further enhancing its prestige and importance within the world of athletics. As the championships draw closer, anticipation continues to build, and athletes are focused on preparing for the challenges that lie ahead.
The next step for Visser and Nillessen will be to continue their training and preparation in the lead-up to the World Indoor Championships. They will likely participate in additional competitions to fine-tune their form and build confidence. The Dutch athletics federation will provide support and guidance to ensure that the athletes are fully prepared for the challenges of competing on the world stage. Fans can stay updated on the athletes’ progress through official team announcements and media coverage.
What are your thoughts on Nadine Visser’s qualification and the impressive performances in Liévin? Share your comments below and let us know who you’re most excited to watch at the World Indoor Championships in Toruń!
