Jolien Maliga Boumkwo, a Belgian shot put and hammer thrower, stepped in to compete in the 100-meter hurdles at the European Team Championships after her teammate Anne Zagre withdrew due to injury. Boumkwo, who primarily specializes in throwing events, took on the challenge in an effort to earn points for the team and help Belgium maintain their position in division one of the championships.
Despite not having expertise in hurdling, Boumkwo persevered and completed the race by stepping over each hurdle rather than jumping. Although she finished last, her effort allowed her to secure two points for the team. Her time for the race was recorded at 32.81 seconds.
Boumkwo’s determination and willingness to step outside her comfort zone to support her team are commendable, even if the result wasn’t a top placement. Her performance highlights her dedication and sportsmanship in representing Belgium at the European Team Championships.