A new sprinting star is emerging in Switzerland as Fabienne Hoenke sprinted her way into the finals of the 200 meters at the European Championships in Birmingham. On Thursday, she achieved an impressive third-fastest time in the semifinals, clocking in at 22.46 seconds, while fellow Swiss athlete Mujinga Kambundji faced elimination.
Although Fabienne Hoenke had not yet made a mark at the elite level, her illustrious background in youth categories, particularly in relays, has set the stage for her meteoric rise. This latest performance not only reflects her talent but also marks a personal best, reducing her previous record by four hundredths of a second from her recent outing at the Diamond League meeting in Rabat.
Hoenke's ability to remain composed during significant competitions is noteworthy; achieving a personal record in a championship setting is no small feat. At Birmingham’s Alexander Stadium, she was outpaced only by British sprinter Amy Hunt, who won the 100 meters, and Ireland's Adeleke, who finished with times of 22.37 and 22.43 seconds respectively.
Since the beginning of the season, Hoenke has shaved almost half a second off her personal best. Her smooth technique and relaxation during the final 50 meters have played a crucial role in her success. In stark contrast, Mujinga Kambundji, a two-time defending champion, struggled in her second 200-meter race of the season, marking her return after the birth of her son, Leo, last November. She had previously indicated that her body was still adjusting and regaining its competitive form.
Finishing with a time of 23.81 seconds, Kambundji placed 23rd and fell nearly two seconds short of her Swiss record, as well as half a second behind her previous time in Bulle from July. She maintained a strong position up to about the halfway mark before her lack of power became apparent in the latter stages of the race.
Despite receiving a wildcard entry directly to the semifinals due to her previous titles, Kambundji’s lack of recent competition made this an unenviable position. Competing in Birmingham less than eight months after becoming a mother, the 34-year-old Bernese sprinter had her sights set on quickly re-establishing herself ahead of the next season.
“To be honest, I felt better during training this week than I did today. It’s a bit disappointing. I held on for 120, 130 meters,” Kambundji reflected post-race.
At the finish line, Léonie Pointet offered her a comforting embrace. Unfortunately, Pointet also faced elimination, finishing far from her usual standards with a time of 23.10 seconds, placing 11th. After competing in her second Diamond League event of the summer in Rabat—her first outside of Switzerland—Pointet will look to regain her form in relay events. Iris Caligiuri also faced elimination, finishing 19th in 23.34 seconds.
As reported by latele.ch.
