1 year ago
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NEW YORK, United States (CMC ):
Vincentian Olympic finalist Shafiqua Maloney made a statement on Saturday, running a meet record 1:59.07 to win the women’s 800 metres at the 117th Millrose Games at the Armory Track & Field Center in New York.
The victory not only solidified her status as one of the world’s top middle-distance runners but also established a new world lead for the season, ahead of Americans Olivia Baker (2:00.02) and Kaela Edwards (2:00.14).
Maloney, who narrowly missed out on a medal with a fourth-place finish at the Paris Olympics last year, has been laser-focused on her goal of becoming the best of the best.
“I want to be among the best. I know it takes hard work to do that, and I’ve been doing the hard work. I’m trusting in God first and foremost, myself, the training I’ve done, and my coach,” said Maloney.
The 25-year-old athlete credited her recent success to months of gruelling preparation under the guidance of her coach.
“I’ve been training hard the past couple of months. At the beginning of the season, coach had me running miles, and stuff, and he told me that whatever it came down to, I’ve got what it takes to finish.”
Maloney emphasised the importance of her coach’s role in her development, noting that his insights and encouragement have been invaluable.
“At the end of the day, he can see things that I cannot see. When I am finished running, he’s the one that gives me confidence. He tells me, ‘This is what we need to work on, this is what you did well, and this is what we can improve.’ It’s a collective effort to get to where I want to be.”
With her sights set on future competitions, including the next Olympic Games, Maloney is determined to continue her ascent in the sport.
“I want to be among the best of the best. I’m out there today, and I’m out here to work my way to that.”
English (US) ·