The Philippine athletics team’s campaign in the 2024 World Athletics Indoor Championships kicks off tonight with Lauren Hoffman competing first in the women’s 400-meter event in Glasgow, Scotland.
Hoffman, who clocked in 53.71 seconds at the 2024 Clemson Tiger Paw Invitational in South Carolina last month, will set the tone for the three-man national team campaign that also includes hurdler John Cabang and pole vaulter Ernest John Obiena.
The Duke University athlete will begin her run at 6:20 p.m. (Manila time).
Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association secretary general Jasper Tanhueco told DAILY TRIBUNE that having the 24-year-old compete in a different event will help her hone herself in pursuit of a slot for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
“Regarding Lauren, although her main event is the 400m hurdles, participating in the 400m will still benefit her experience-wise and aid her pursuit of qualifying for the 400m hurdles at the Paris Olympics,” Tanhueco said, who arrived in Glasgow with Hoffman last Wednesday.
After Hoffman, Cabang will be up next as he sees action in the men’s 60m hurdles at 2 March at 6:10 p.m.
Obiena will be the last Filipino to compete on 4 March at 3 a.m. (Manila time).
Tanhueco said he and Patafa president Terry Capistrano are behind their athletes’ campaign.
“As for EJ, me and president Terry have full confidence in him. He’s determined to win,” Tanhueco said.
“I believe each athlete will surpass their personal best. With tough competition, the World Athletics Indoors Championships will push them.”
