Triple jump athlete Muhammad Hakimi is hoping to use his wild card entry and spring a surprise in his first appearance at the World Athletics Championships, currently ongoing in Beijing, China.
Being the only national athlete in the championship, Hakimi wishes to carve his name on the Great Wall of China besides collecting points in order to qualify for Rio Olympics next year.
Even when facing tough challenges, Hakimi says the main focus is on improving his jumps and breaking his own national record of 16.76m, which he recorded at the Singapore SEA Games.
He needs to record a 16.90m jump to at least get through the qualification limit for Rio Olympics.
“Being the only athlete to represent Malaysia is a big thing, I hope to make some kind of impact in Beijing.”
“However, when it comes to athletics, our chances to qualify are far brighter compared to other categories. That’s because IAAF (International Amateur Athletic Federation) officials will be present at each competition, so I still have a chance if I don’t do well in the World Championships,” said the Perak-born athlete, as quoted by Harian Metro.
“But I will still take this golden opportunity at this event and do my very best.”
According to the latest world rankings, Hakimi is now at the 47th spot, whereas he needs to be in the best of 32 to confirm his place in Rio.
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