Duplantis, Bol, and Holloway. Three stars, three trophies?
Between the three of them, they've won so many medals at the Olympics and World Championships that we wouldn't even have enough fingers on both hands to count them. These athletic superstars are looking forward to Tuesday's Golden Spike. Armand Duplantis, Femke Bol, and Grant Holloway need no introduction. What did they tell us at the press conference a few hours before the meeting started?
Armand Duplantis
About world record:
It was a good jump, but I don't think it was that great. However, seeing my performance on video gave me a lot of confidence. Of course I celebrated, because my family and many friends were there. I celebrated a lot, but I've rested now. The bib looks great here. I'm glad to be back here.
About another world record:
I'm still very motivated. My body has changed a lot in the last five years. I know which poles to choose and can listen to my body more, which I consider important. Thanks to that, I can still jump high. I'm looking forward to it, the atmosphere here is great. Apparently, it will be sold out. That's fantastic. I already have a few trophies from here, and I'd like to add more.
About meeting other sport stars:
Great and inspiring. They're normal and funny, just like us. I sat next to Carlos Alcaraz; he was fun to be around. I always enjoy such events.
Femke Bol
About her third performance in Ostrava:
The last time I ran here was three years ago. I didn't expect to finish so quickly. It's great that I can combine my main discipline with the 300 metres hurdles. It's always fun, and it's a good mix for me.
About the first 400 meters of the season:
I'm really looking forward to it. Ostrava is a great place, and I enjoy running here. I see the 400-meter race as easier because I don't have to think about my steps between hurdles. My competitors run very fast, so it'll be a great race, and I'm going to give it my all. We'll see what I will perform.
About the long-standing meeting record:
It's crazy that it's stood for so long. It's also great that I can compete in front of her. It'll be fun!
About the training with Lourdes Gloria Manuel:
She's talented and has a bright future ahead of her. It's a shame she can't run in Ostrava. But we'll definitely meet at another meeting.
Grant Holloway
About the hurdles tradition at Golden Spike:
I started trying new things in training. I opened the season with the second-best "opening" of my career. That means I got off to a great start.
About wishing to be best:
The only thing missing is the world record. I believe I have the strength to break it. I want to be the best of the best. I am highly motivated to achieve this goal.
The road to Tokyo:
It's great that I don't have to worry about the US Championships, so I can focus on myself and my training. Until then, I'll compete in a few more races. I expect another tough races, which motivates me to perform even better.
About other disciplines:
I love competing, and I want to try something new next season. I won't say exactly what it is, but it will show my strengths and weaknesses. I enjoy winning, and that's what it's all about.
About the crystal trophy:
It's a beautiful piece. I'm sure I'll find a place for it in my home. I'm looking forward to tomorrow.
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