Filipina-American hurdler Lauren Hoffman concluded her Olympic debut in the women’s 400m hurdles at the 2024 Paris Olympics, finishing in seventh place in her repechage heat. Hoffman, who faced significant challenges in the lead-up to the Games, clocked a time of 58.28 seconds, placing her 20th out of the 21 athletes who competed in the repechage heats.
“Officially an Olympian, but man, these last two months have been a struggle. A struggle to stay healthy, to get the training in, to stay confident,” Hoffman shared on social media following her race at the State de France on Monday.
The top two athletes from each repechage heat advanced to the semifinals. France’s Shana Grebo (54.91) and Ukraine’s Anna Ryzhykova (54.95) earned their spots in the next round. Despite not advancing, Hoffman’s participation marked a significant milestone in her athletic career.
Hoffman holds the Philippine national record for the 400m hurdles with a time of 55.72 seconds, set in April. However, her performance in the repechage was slower than her 57.84-second mark in the preliminary heats, where she placed 37th overall.
“Two disappointing and humbling performances on the highest stage of sport, but I am still so grateful and want to thank God for the opportunity. Even though I couldn’t represent the country in the way I know I can, I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything,” Hoffman reflected.
As Hoffman looks back on her Olympic journey with gratitude, she remains an inspiration for many aspiring athletes. Her resilience and determination to compete on the world stage highlight the spirit of perseverance.
Filipina-American hurdler Lauren Hoffman ended her Olympic debut in seventh place in the repechage heat of the women’s 400m hurdles of the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Meanwhile, world no. 35 hurdler John Cabang Tolentino will not be able to race in the men’s 110m hurdles repechage set at 10:50 a.m. on Tuesday (4 p.m. Philippines), due to an injury.
