Tag: Lima

Media Development Programme Empowers Lima’s Next Generation of Reporters

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World Athletics’ Media Development Programme Shapes Future Reporters

Introduction: Championing Journalism in Athletics

World Athletics has highlighted the crucial role journalists play in sports coverage. At the World Athletics U20 Championships Lima 24, twelve emerging reporters embarked on the Media Development Programme (MDP). This initiative, in partnership with the International Sports Press Association (AIPS), aimed to cultivate young journalists with a focus on athletics.

Transformative Training for Young Reporters

The MDP provided an enriching blend of theoretical and practical training. Over the course of the programme, reporters from Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Panama, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela gathered at the Estadio Atlético la Videna, the site of the World U20 Championships. The sessions included presentations, discussions, and hands-on experiences, all while offering a privileged view of the track.

Mentorship and Expertise

Veteran journalist Martin Mazur, known for his extensive work with publications such as El Gráfico and FourFourTwo, led the programme. As the director of the AIPS Sport Media Awards, Mazur brought invaluable experience to the training.

Alondra Naupari, a reporter from Peru, reflected on her learning: “Focusing on details, capturing a good story, and honing observation skills were key takeaways from Martin’s sessions.” The programme simulated a real newsroom environment, covering everything from story pitching to the significance of accuracy and reputation in journalism.

Mazur emphasized the programme’s modular approach: “Some journalists were more experienced or specialized in specific areas. We started from scratch, which helped them grow both individually and as a group.”

In-Depth Knowledge of Athletics

Understanding the rules of athletics was crucial for effective reporting. Luca Verrascina, Senior Competition Manager at World Athletics, provided insights during a tour of the athletics track. Manuela Santos from Ecuador praised the interactive nature of the experience, which clarified complex aspects of the sport.

Behind the Scenes of Major Events

The young reporters learned about the logistics of organizing major athletics events, such as the Diamond League and World Championships, from Zacharias Vailakis, Head of Media Operations at World Athletics. Lucas Nazrala from Bolivia noted the immense scale of these events and the multifaceted nature of athletics.

Mastering Flash Quotes and Interviews

A significant portion of the programme was dedicated to preparing for flash quotes, a vital aspect of sports reporting. Press Delegate Antonio Carvalho guided the participants on how to gather key information and conduct effective interviews. Vanessa Galvan from Venezuela appreciated the focus on respecting athletes and understanding their preferences during interviews.

The Role of Digital and Social Media

Laura Arcoleo, Social Media Manager at World Athletics, highlighted the impact of digital platforms on sports communication. Itzel Luna from Panama found the session particularly enlightening, noting how social media influences athlete growth and federation evolution. Michelle Sammet and Jessica Whittington from the World Athletics Communications team also provided insights into the importance of digital communication and resource optimization.

Emotional Insights and Broadcasting

The programme also included discussions on the emotional aspects of sports journalism, such as meeting members of the Athlete Refugee Team. Vanessa Galvan and Rodrigo D’Angelo shared their reflections on how sports offer hope to individuals facing extreme challenges.

Broadcasting was another key topic, with Joris Wauman explaining the technical aspects behind televising events. Rodrigo D’Angelo from Argentina was impressed by the complexity of broadcasting operations.

Celebrating Achievements

The programme culminated in a ceremony where participants received certificates from Helio Marinho Gesta de Melo, president of Atletismo Sudamericano. The intensive training, which ran from 9 am to 9 pm daily, marked a significant milestone in their journalism careers. Sebastian Lasquera from Argentina expressed gratitude for the opportunity, emphasizing the growth of athletics in South America.

Looking Ahead

Martin Mazur concluded the programme with a reflection on the journey: “We focused on the eagerness to tell stories rather than prior knowledge of athletics. By the end of the programme, participants gained not only enhanced knowledge but also stronger storytelling skills.”

The experience ended with a group photo on the track, symbolizing the hard work and dedication of the young reporters.

AIPS’s Commitment to Future Journalists

AIPS President Gianni Merlo praised the Media Development Programme: “Since 2011, our Young Reporters Programme has aimed to nurture the next generation of journalists. Our collaboration with World Athletics exemplifies the power of AIPS and its network, providing a unique learning experience for emerging journalists passionate about athletics.”

Reid and Walaza Capture World U20 100m Titles in Lima

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Day Two Wrap-Up: A Memorable 100m Final and Impressive Field Events

The second day of the World Athletics U20 Championships in Lima delivered an unforgettable evening, capped off by the much-anticipated 100m finals. From record-breaking performances to unexpected triumphs, the event showcased the best of young athletic talent.

Women’s 100m: Reid Dominates in a Showdown of Speed

The women’s 100m final lived up to its hype, with a fierce battle between Jamaica’s Alana Reid and Adaejah Hodge from the British Virgin Islands. Reid, with a powerful start, secured her victory in 11.17 seconds, marking her first global U20 title. Hodge, despite a sluggish start, powered through to claim silver with a time of 11.27 seconds. Kishawna Niles of Barbados completed the podium with a strong finish of 11.37 seconds.

Reid’s victory crowns an exceptional season, adding to her impressive resume, which includes a fifth-place finish in the Jamaican 4x100m relay team at the Paris Olympic Games. Reflecting on her achievement, Reid said, “This is my last World U20 Championships, and I wanted it to be my best one. To the new generation, I say, never give up and dream big.”

Men’s 100m: Walaza Shines for South Africa

In the men’s 100m final, South Africa’s Bayanda Walaza defied expectations to clinch gold with a time of 10.19 seconds. His explosive start set the tone, as he outpaced his competitors right from the beginning. Thailand’s Puripol Boonson, who made history by securing his nation’s first medal at the World U20 Championships, claimed silver in 10.22 seconds. Bradley Nkoana, Walaza’s fellow South African and pre-event favorite, took bronze with a time of 10.26 seconds.

Walaza expressed his joy, stating, “This is special, especially for my people from South Africa. This is an emotional moment for me, and it feels incredibly special.”

Women’s Heptathlon: Koscak Prevails in a Nail-Biter Finish

The women’s heptathlon came down to the final event—the 800m. Jana Koscak of Croatia needed to stay ahead of Switzerland’s Lucia Acklin to secure the gold, and she did so by a narrow margin, winning the event with 5807 points. Acklin, who staged a strong comeback with personal and season’s bests in the javelin and 800m, earned silver with 5755 points. Adela Tkacova of Czechia delivered a stellar 800m performance, clocking in at 2:16.77 to secure bronze with 5601 points.

Field Events: China’s Han Bingyang Takes Discus Gold, Amidzovski Triumphs in Long Jump

In the women’s discus, China’s Han Bingyang threw a personal best of 57.57m to secure the gold medal, leading a 1-2 finish for China as Huang Jingru earned silver with a throw of 56.47m. Australia’s Marley Raikiwasa claimed bronze with a 56.25m throw in the fifth round.

The women’s long jump saw a surprise victory from Australia’s Delta Amidzovski, who jumped a personal best of 6.58m to take gold. Sophia Beckmon of the US earned silver with a 6.54m jump, while Poland’s Julia Adamczyk secured bronze with a 6.34m leap.

Key Performances in Qualification Rounds

Day two also featured notable performances in qualification rounds. Jayden Davis of the US led the men’s 400m qualifiers with a time of 45.79 seconds, while Japan’s Kentaro Shirahata and USA’s Sidi Njie won their respective semifinals, setting the stage for an exciting final.

In the women’s 400m, Czechia’s Lurdes Gloria Manuel and Nigeria’s Ella Onojuvwevwo emerged as the top contenders after strong semifinal runs. Meanwhile, in the men’s 1500m, Australia’s Cameron Myers led all qualifiers with a time of 3:41.32, solidifying his position as the favorite for the final.

In the women’s 1500m heats, Ethiopia’s Saron Berhe confirmed her status as the one to beat, clocking the fastest qualifying time of 4:18.88. The men’s pole vault final will feature top qualifiers like Jan Krcek of Czechia, who led the field with a flawless performance.

As the World Athletics U20 Championships continue, the competition promises more thrilling moments and standout achievements from the world’s best young athletes.

Nkoana Returns to Global Stage in Lima, Aims Higher After Olympic Silver

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The Road to Lima: Building on Olympic Success

Bradley Nkoana, already an Olympic silver medallist, understands the significance of the World Athletics U20 Championships in Lima as a pivotal moment in his career. The 19-year-old sprinter, who made history with South Africa’s 4x100m relay team in Paris, now looks to claim individual honors in Lima.

Nkoana is set to compete in the men’s 100m final, facing off against fellow Olympic medallist Bayanda Walaza, his South African teammate, and Thailand’s Puripol Boonson. This race promises to be a thrilling showdown between some of the fastest young athletes in the world.

A Historic Olympic Achievement

Earlier this month in Paris, Nkoana and Walaza teamed up with Akani Simbine and Shaun Maswanganyi to set a new African record of 37.57 seconds in the 4x100m relay, earning South Africa its first Olympic medal in this event. Now, Nkoana and Walaza are aiming for further success at the U20 level, with their eyes on the 100m final and another shot at relay gold later in the week.

A Milestone Moment in His Career

Reflecting on the opportunity to compete in Lima, Nkoana expressed his gratitude and determination. “Being here is a blessing, and I feel like this competition is a milestone towards my career,” he said. Nkoana’s journey to this point has not been without challenges; he was unable to compete at the 2022 World U20 Championships due to an injury. However, with his coach’s support, he remained focused on his future, and now he’s ready to bring his best performance to the track.

Nkoana enters the 100m final as the fastest in the field, having set a national U20 record of 10.03 seconds in La Chaux-de-Fonds last month. Despite the close competition, he is confident and ready to give his all. “I’m preparing myself to show my best out there and compete with the guys,” he said.

A Journey of Discovery: From Childhood Speed to Global Competitor

Nkoana’s talent for sprinting was evident from a young age. He recalls challenging older boys to races when he was in grade four and realizing his potential when he won. Initially drawn to football, it was his grandmother who recognized his true calling in athletics. “My grandma really put me in line, saying: ‘Bradley, you are an athlete – this is you,’” he shared.

His grandmother’s encouragement set him on the path to success, and today, Nkoana’s inspiration comes from both his family and his coach, Paul Gorries. Gorries, a former world U20 200m champion, has played a crucial role in shaping Nkoana’s career. “My coach not only nurtured my talent, but he prepared me for the world mentally,” Nkoana said.

The Mentor Behind the Medal: Coach Paul Gorries

Gorries, who won the world U20 200m title in 2000, brings a wealth of experience to his coaching. He has guided Nkoana not only in technical aspects but also in balancing the pressures of early success. “He is young, he is ambitious. He gets ahead of himself a little bit! So, it’s my job to just tone it down,” Gorries explained.

For Gorries, coaching Nkoana is a full-circle moment. “It is quite a journey, coaching now – I sometimes call it payback for the hard times I gave my coach when they give it to me!” he joked. Despite the challenges, Gorries is optimistic about Nkoana’s future, seeing Lima as the start of even greater achievements.

The Power of Teamwork: Reflecting on Olympic Glory

As Nkoana prepares for his races in Lima, he reflects on the unforgettable experience of winning Olympic silver. One moment stands out: “The look on Akani’s face when he realized that we actually brought a medal back for South Africa,” Nkoana recalled. He cherishes the bond he formed with his teammates, knowing that their hard work and camaraderie made the victory possible.

While the silver medal holds a special place in his heart, Nkoana is focused on the challenges ahead. “Being in Paris was just a good experience,” he said. “I was able to handle myself well, and coming into this championship, I feel like I am more ready, more focused, and I have high expectations of myself.”

Inspiring the Next Generation: Nkoana’s Message to Young Athletes

As Nkoana continues to rise in the world of athletics, he is already inspiring the next generation of sprinters. Speaking to the media in Lima, he offered advice to young athletes with Olympic dreams: “Don’t limit yourself,” he urged. “Even if you feel like you are the youngest, to the world you are someone, and you have value. So don’t limit yourself, and anything is possible. Just run your heart out and have fun. That’s always important – just have fun.”

With his sights set on more success, Bradley Nkoana is a name to watch as he continues to break barriers and achieve new heights in his athletic career.

Thrilling Performances Light Up the World Athletics U20 Championships in Lima

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Record-Breaking Victory in the Women’s 3000m Steeplechase

Ethiopian athlete Sembo Almayew made history at the World Athletics U20 Championships in Lima by becoming the first Ethiopian to win the women’s 3000m steeplechase. Almayew delivered an outstanding performance, pulling ahead of her main competitor, Uganda’s Loice Chekwemoi, on the penultimate lap to secure the gold with a time of 9:12.71. This impressive feat also set a new championship record, shaving 0.07 seconds off the previous mark set by Celliphine Chespol in 2018. Chekwemoi earned silver with a time of 9:18.84, while Kenya’s Diana Chepkemoi took the bronze in 9:29.84.

Czechia’s Lurdes Gloria Manuel Shines in the Women’s 400m Final

In the women’s 400m final, Lurdes Gloria Manuel of Czechia demonstrated her potential as a future star. Despite having competed in the Paris Olympics, she showed no signs of fatigue. Manuel executed a flawless race, breaking away from the competition in the final 100 meters to finish in 51.29 seconds. Canada’s Dianna Proctor claimed the silver medal with a personal best of 51.98 seconds, followed closely by the USA’s Zaya Akins, who took bronze with a time of 52.00 seconds.

South Africa’s Udeme Okon Claims Gold in the Men’s 400m Final

Udeme Okon of South Africa dominated the men’s 400m final, showcasing his speed and endurance in the crucial last 100 meters. Okon powered past the American duo of Jayden Davis and Sidi Njie, crossing the finish line in 45.69 seconds to secure the gold medal. Davis followed with a silver in 46.08 seconds, and Njie took bronze with a time of 46.29 seconds.

Upset Victory in the Men’s 3000m Steeplechase

Norwegian athlete Andreas Fjeld Halvorsen delivered a surprise victory in the men’s 3000m steeplechase. After a slow start, the pace quickened midway through the race. Kenya’s Clinton Kimutai Ngetich led with a powerful surge, but Halvorsen, lying in wait, made his move on the final bend. Halvorsen crossed the finish line in 8:20.56, ahead of Kenya’s Denis Kipkoech, who finished in 8:20.79, and Britain’s Edward Bird, who clocked 8:21.00.

Halvorsen expressed his delight after the race, saying, “I’m getting in the shape of my life now. These last days and weeks were great. I wanted to fight for the gold, and that is exactly what I did. I’m grateful for everyone who helped me achieve this.”

Women’s 100m Hurdles Semifinals: Kerrica Hill Leads the Pack

Jamaica’s Kerrica Hill, the reigning champion, asserted her dominance in the women’s 100m hurdles semifinals. Hill clocked 13.00 seconds to secure her spot in the final, ahead of the USA’s Nonah Waldron, who finished in 13.35 seconds. Delta Amidzovski of Australia, who had earlier won the long jump, continued her impressive form by winning the last semifinal in 13.48 seconds. Croatia’s Mia Wild won the first semifinal with a time of 13.24 seconds.

USA’s Ja’Kobe Tharp Sets U20 World Lead in Men’s 110m Hurdles Semifinals

In the men’s 110m hurdles semifinals, Ja’Kobe Tharp of the USA set a world U20 leading time of 13.11 seconds, winning his heat comfortably. Tharp’s closest rival in the final is expected to be his teammate Andre Korbmacher, who won his semifinal in 13.25 seconds. China’s Chen Yuanjiang also emerged as a strong contender, winning his semifinal in 13.38 seconds.

Strong Contenders Emerge in Women’s and Men’s 800m Semifinals

Australia’s Claudia Hollingsworth delivered a composed performance to win her women’s 800m semifinal in 2:03.52, positioning herself as a favorite for the final. Kenya’s Sarah Moraa, the cousin of world champion Mary Moraa, won the third semifinal in 2:03.44, setting up a thrilling final. Japan’s Rin Kubo narrowly edged out the USA’s Sophia Gorriaran to win the first semifinal by just 0.01 seconds, finishing in 2:03.00.

In the men’s 800m semifinals, Australia’s Peyton Craig timed his run perfectly to win the first heat in 1:47.31. Ethiopia’s General Berhanu Ayansa won the second semifinal with a time of 1:47.28, while Kenya’s Phanuel Kipkosgei Koech narrowly beat Japan’s Ko Ochiai in the final semifinal, clocking 1:48.26.

Adaejah Hodge and Torrie Lewis Lead the Charge in Women’s 200m Semifinals

Adaejah Hodge, who won silver in the 100m, showcased her strength in the 200m semifinals, winning her race in 23.18 seconds. However, the fastest qualifier for the final was Australia’s Torrie Lewis, who clocked 23.14 seconds in the subsequent semifinal. Australia’s Jessia Milat won the other semifinal with a time of 23.42 seconds.

Australia Dominates in Men’s 200m Semifinals

Australia continued to shine in the men’s 200m semifinals, with Gout Gout, a recent viral sensation, winning his heat in 21.07 seconds. Sweden’s William Trulsson narrowly beat Britain’s Jake Odey-Jordan in the second semifinal, while South Africa’s Bayanda Walaza, the 100m champion, looked strong as he won the last semifinal in 21.00 seconds, positioning himself as a favorite for the sprint double.