Zoe Hobbs first New Zealand woman to qualify for the Olympics in the 100m since 1976

Zoe Hobbs became the first female runner from New Zealand to qualify for the Olympics in the 100m in nearly 50 years after breaking a personal best to win her heat at the Continental Tour Challenger Championships in Switzerland.

Hobbs, 25, ran 10.96 seconds in the heats at La Chaux-de-Fonds before winning the final in 11.13.

The last New Zealand woman to compete in the 100 meters at the Olympics was Sue Jowett in 1976 in Montreal.

“When I saw the time coming, I couldn’t believe it,” Hobbs said. “I didn’t think I was going to run at the time, especially given the conditions… The wind was all over the shop with a headwind and a tailwind.

“I didn’t think I’d run a PB in the heat at all… It was a bit of a shock when I saw the time.”

Hobbs, who began his European season at last week’s Diamond League in Lausanne, said he was relieved to have reached the qualifying time for Paris 2024 ahead of next month’s World Championships in Budapest.

“It takes a huge weight off my shoulders and makes a big difference for the rest of the season,” Hobbs added. “I don’t have to chase time now. I can focus on what I need to lead the world champions.”