By MARK REY MONTEJO
Fil-American hurdler Lauren Hoffman is feeling beyond blessed and honored to finally represent the Philippines in the 2024 Paris Games.
The 25-year-old hurdler, who will compete in her first-ever Olympic appearance in the lovely French capital, was just ecstatic to join the rest of the Philippine contingent in the world’s grandest sporting stage.
The Haymarket, Virginia native earned her Olympic ticket by finishing within Top 40 of her pet event – women’s 400m hurdles placing 39th in the World Athletics’ Road to Paris list with 1223 points.
“I qualified for the Olympics. Still feels so crazy to say that. It is such an honor to join my kababayan and represent the Philippines at the upcoming Olympic Games,” Hoffman wrote on her Facebook post.
“Feeling beyond blessed.”
“God didn’t just give me the physical abilities to hurdle and run. He gave me the passion to pursue a sport that takes so much mental and physical energy. He gave me work ethic, drive, and a competitive spirit,” Hoffman added.
“He sparked a fire in my heart to relentlessly chase after my dreams. He gave me an amazing support system of family, friends, teammates, and coaches. He gave me countless opportunities and resources. This could not have been done alone,” she continued.
She also expressed her gratitude to her loved ones who stood behind her all throughout her Olympic bid.
“Thank you to my mom, an incredible role model and the most selfless person I know. I am so grateful for all her work behind the scenes. Thank you to my family for so much love and support since I began running. Shoutout Dad for running my first race (a 5k lol) with me. Thank you to Sean for always believing in me.”
Hoffman alongside John Cabang Tolentino, who qualified in men’s 110m hurdles, will join pole vaulter EJ Obiena in the athletics team for the Paris Games set July 26 to Aug. 11.
