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South Korea’s track and field events still lag behind world-class standards. In particular, the men’s sprint events have struggled to reach the podium in Asia since the 1980s, when athlete Jang Jae-geun competed. However, this September’s Asian Games may feature hopeful contenders. Reporter Shin Hyun-jung met them.

[Reporter]

At the national men’s 100m trials, strong winds prevented official record recognition, but the final saw times close to the Korean record of 10.07 seconds set by Kim Guk-young a decade ago. Mixed-race athlete Joel Jin, who crossed the finish line first at 10.09 seconds, is considered the most likely candidate to break the Korean record.

“I always keep the Korean record in mind, so I try to focus in every competition. As opportunities come, I aim to peak in each one.”

Joel Jin finished just 0.031 seconds ahead of naturalized athlete Biwesa, who ran 10.121 seconds—also unofficial but a personal best. After struggling with a thigh injury in 2022, Biwesa has made a strong comeback at these trials.

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“Before I sleep, I always imagine standing on the podium. I think I cried a lot. It feels like all the frustrations I’ve had are finally being released.”

The two athletes, three years apart in age, are each other’s biggest motivators. Until the Asian Games, they plan to compete in record improvements and dream of stepping onto the podium together.

“Even if I come in second, I won’t be too upset, but of course, I’d rather be first.”

“I want to be first too.”

The Asian barrier remains high for South Korea. Athletes from six countries, including China, Japan, and Thailand, have already broken the 10-second barrier. To reach the podium they dream of, South Korean sprinters must break the 9-second wall.

This is Shin Hyun-jung from Yonhap News TV.

[Video coverage: Jang Jun-hwan]

[Video editing: Kim So-hee]

[Graphics: Kang Seong-hoon]

[Screen provided by Korea Athletics Federation, SOOP]