Israeli Athletes Set National Record and Reach Finals at U18 European Athletics Championships

At the U18 European Athletics Championships in Italy, Israeli athlete Hila Versano set a new national record in the 400-meter hurdles with a time of 1:00.02 minutes, advancing to the semifinals scheduled for the following day. Additionally, Idan Noam and Aviv Tuchman qualified for the final of the 2,000-meter steeplechase after recording times of 5:53.23 and 5:53.63 minutes respectively in the preliminary rounds. The final race is set for Sunday.

Etti Megidi, the professional manager of the Israeli Athletics Association, commented on the performances, noting that both steeplechasers overcame technical difficulties during their heats. Tuchman fell at the last water jump but still finished within the top seven, while Noam also stumbled on a regular hurdle but managed to secure a top-seven finish. Megidi expressed optimism about their potential to break the Israeli record, which he currently holds, and hopes they will achieve strong placements in the final. He emphasized the importance of their recovery before Sunday’s race to deliver strong performances.