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."