Australia’s Imogen Breslin strikes gold in women’s 100m hurdles at Sol2023 Pacific Games

Australia’s Imogen Breslin electrified the track at Honiara’s National Stadium on Thursday evening, securing gold in the women’s 100m hurdles at the Sol2023 Pacific Games.

Breslin’s victory not only marked a personal triumph but also retained the top podium spot for Australia in this event, which was won by her fellow countrywoman Brianna Beahan at the Samoa 2019 Pacific Games.

Clocking in at an impressive 13.81 seconds, Breslin, who is 22 years of age, showcased her exceptional speed, agility, and hurdling prowess.

Silver medallist Adrine Monagi of Papua New Guinea, who also won silver in this event at Samoa 2019, crossed the finish line with a time of 14.29 seconds. Monagi’s consistent performance highlights her status as a formidable contender in the Women’s 100m Hurdles.

Meanwhile, New Caledonia’s Esther Wejieme crossed the line third in 14.39 seconds. Like Monagi, Wejieme successfully defended her bronze title from Samoa 2019, adding another layer of continuity to the podium.

Breslin, overwhelmed with emotion, shared her joy at achieving her long-held dream of standing atop the podium and hearing the Australian national anthem.

She told the Pacific Games News Service: “I’m ecstatic. I just screamed over the line, I was overjoyed. Just before the race, I was thinking, I want to be on that gold podium. I want to be looking at the Australian flag, hearing my national anthem for the first time in my life, getting that opportunity. So I was just overcome with adrenaline. It is so surreal getting to do that. You know, a dream come true,” expressed Breslin.

“I actually had my first proper experience at the World University Games this year, that was a few months ago, so it’s good that I came in a little bit prepared knowing what to expect”.

Acknowledging the collaborative nature of her success, Breslin emphasised the importance of her support system, including coaches, parents, and friends.

“It’s an individual sport, but it’s a team effort at the end of the day, to think you can do it alone is just wrong. I don’t think that’s quite possible,” added Breslin, underscoring the collective effort that contributes to an athlete’s success.

By Lamantha Lano and Junior Sisima, Pacific Games News Service