Taylon Bieldt reflects on breaking SA 100m Hurdles record

Although she specializes in the 400m hurdles event, the 24-year-old surprised herself when she emerged victorious at the Campo Scuola competition in Italy last week. 

Bieldt clocked an astonishing 12.76 seconds, surpassing the previous record of 12.81 set by Rekenette Steenkamp in Switzerland back in 2018, and secured qualification for the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungary.

"Breaking the SA 100m Hurdles record was truly incredible. The race was so special, I think especially because I know how hard my team and I have been working this season just to improve," said Bieldt.

"I think this was just such a big confirmation that we're on the right track, so if anything, it just shows that there's so much more in store this season, and I think it's just the beginning of an incredible season that lies ahead."

During the Paavo Nurmi Games in Finland held on Tuesday, Bieldt showed her determination in the 400m hurdles, securing a commendable fourth place finish. Though she achieved a personal best of 54.91, she narrowly missed the World Athletics Championships qualifying time of 54.90, but remains determined as she prepares for her next event in France.

"At the end of the week, from Sunday, I'll be in Nancy, France, running the 100m Hurdles, so I have a really exciting week ahead – a lot of traveling and preparations to do, but I'm very excited," she concluded.