News

June 2, 2006 - Cottbus, Germany

Solid start to summer season

Cottbus is known as a decent-sized city with a small village feel. Most people visit to partake in outdoor activities such as hiking in the vast forests or canoeing along the rivers. This weekend, however, many travellers were in town for the athletics meeting that can be characterized much like the city itself -- with a substantial pool of athletes, but a relaxed and intimate atmosphere. The small stadium was packed with fans and the enthusiastic kids just couldn't get enough autographs!

The women's 800m field hosted athletes from seven different countries, and many with world-class personal bests around two minutes. Cottbus proved to be a good start to Hilary's summer season, as she finished fifth in 2:05.59. After missing a week of training due to Bronchitis, she was satisfied with the effort.

"After last week [being sick], my main concern was being able to race and feel normal again," said Stellingwerff. "The day before the race I still didn't feel myself, but the day of I felt much better and was able to put in a good effort for the race. I am confident that by Wednesday's race I will be pretty much back to normal."

Hilary will travel to Belgrade, Serbia to race a 1500m on Wednesday, June 7th. She hopes to post a good time that will help set her up to get into some Grand Prix races in July.

For full results from Cottbus, go to:

http://www.german-meeting.de/ergebnisse.htm