The 19th edition of World Indoor Championships kicked-off in Glasgow. In the morning session, one of our biggest hopes – Hungarian Atilla Molnár went safely through the heats of men´s 400m. Atilla controlling his leading position ran a time of 46.52 with a ease-off. The semifinals were held the later that day. The goal was clear – to advance to the finals, getting the best position possible. After a strong start the 200m split time of 21.52 guaranteed him the leading position. The opponents keeped up and the things were set for a fierce battle in the homestretch. The reward was sweet. Atilla claimed his ticket for Saturday´s final with a time of 46.08 which is also a new national record. Will he improve the mark once again? Atilla is strong and ready…
In the heats of men´s 60m, Slovak Ján Volko, stormed to a new season best of 6.59, advancing directly to the semifinals. Unfortunatelly, Ján suffered a calf injury, which caused not only discomfort, but also worries about future plans for his season. His appearance in the semis was questionable. Doctor Karolína Velebová and physiotherapist Jan Šimon did an amazing job and Volko came to the starting line. The result 6.60 was a bit slower than the time needed for a ticket to the final, however Ján showed a heart of a true warrior and a great form after a winding season.
In the final of men´s shot put, two of our athletes were in action. Tomáš Staněk took 11th place throwing 20.31m. Filip Mihaljević finished 8th with a 20.73 mark.
The highlight of the day was women´s high jump competition, where Lia Apostolovski showed her masterclass. 23-years old Slovenia equalled her personal best 195 cm and claimed her first major senior medal. Lia cleared all heights on the first attempts. After that, she moved on to 197cm where she had an unsuccessful attempt and decided to opt out as a result of cramps. Nonetheless, she took bronze!
Many congratulations.
Photo credit: Pavol Uhrin
Jakub Ďurdina
