Fil-Am track star Lauren Hoffman secures spot in Paris Olympics

Photo from hoffyyy14/Instagram

Just weeks before the official start of the Paris Olympics, another Filipino American athlete has earned her place in the Philippine delegation.

Sprinting her way to history, Lauren Hoffman, the Philippine national record holder in the women’s 100m hurdles with a time of 13.41 seconds, will now compete in the 400m hurdles. She will join John Cabang Tolentino, who has also qualified for the 110m hurdles event at the quadrennial meet.

The Official Philippine Athletic Track and Field Association (PATAFA) announced Hoffman’s qualification in an Instagram post, stating, “Qualified! Lauren Hoffman will be competing in the Paris Olympics! We’re proud of you, Lauren! Laban.”

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Hoffman responded with gratitude, commenting, “thank you all SO. MUCH,” accompanied by crying, heart and Philippine flag emojis.

The 25-year-old athlete has been a standout in track and field, consistently showcasing her talent and determination. She recently set the Philippine national record for the 400m hurdles with a time of 55.72 seconds.

The inclusion of Hoffman and Cabang Tolentino brings the total number of athletes in the Philippine delegation to 22. They will join star pole vaulter EJ Obiena in representing the country in track and field events.

The Paris Olympics is all set to open on July 26. The nation eagerly awaits their performances, hoping for new records and historic victories after weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz bagged the first Olympic gold medal for the country.

Other Fil-Ams in the Philippine delegation are gymnasts Aleah Finnegan, Emma Malabuyo, Levi Ruvivar alongside “golden boy” Carlos Yulo. Samantha Catantan, who served as captain of the Penn State fencing team, will also be playing.

Furthermore, Fil-Canadian swimmer Kayla Sanchez will be swimming her way, hopefully, to one of the spots in the podium for the upcoming competition.

Recently, Fil-Am dancer Logan Edra, widely known as “Logistx,” has also secured her name in history by earning a spot on the United States’ breakdancing team for the 2024 Paris Olympics.