It was not a ’smooth race, but Wenda400mh believes she can produce an even quicker time after qualifying for the 400m hurdles semi-finals at the Tokyo Olympics. By ashfakmohamed IOLSport Olympics Tokyo2020 TeamSA
The 21-year-old is the world record-holder with a time of 51.90, and is the favourite for the gold medal ahead of American compatriot Dalilah Muhammad and Bol .
“It’s been a rocky road since I’ve been here, to actually be able to get to this day, to be in the blocks healthy and strong for the Games. But in spite of that, I am just happy and grateful that I could’ve competed today. It was not a smooth race, but I did enjoy it a lot,” Nel, who celebrated her 33rd birthday on Friday, said from Tokyo on Saturday.
“I am almost a second off my season’s best, so like I said, it was not a smooth road to here – had a bit of ups and downs to get to the Games. But still grateful and healthy, and just going to give my best and definitely try and dip under that 56 at least – you never know, maybe under the 55!” So, Nel will almost probably need a new personal best to have a chance, but at the moment, the Tuks Sport athlete is just soaking up the Olympic experience.
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