With record 11th appearance looming, Feitor still believes 'everything is possible' - Daegu 2011
Daegu, Korea - Susana Feitor will be setting a record next Wednesday (31 August) in Daegu, just by taking her first steps in the women’s 20Km Race Walk, marking an unprecedented 11th appearance at the IAAF World Championships.Not that she’s looking to stop, now she’s enjoying it.
Since Berlin 2009, the 36-year-old Portuguese race walker jointly has the most appearances at ten with German discus thrower Franka Dietzsch, having competed in every World Championships since 1991. Her career highlight during that time being the bronze medal she won at Helsinki in 2005.
Russian dominance of the podium places may well continue, but Feitor is looking forward with enthusiasm, intending to match her achievements and renew rivalries that helped inspire others to follow.
Indeed, these days Portugal has a glut of talent in her event, with a full complement of three selected for the women’s Race Walk in their team of 24 athletes for Daegu.
Feitor’s return to form this season includes a 1:30:44 clocking at Rio Maior in April (her fastest 20 km since 2008), while Inês Henriques has twice walked faster. Ana Cabecinha is also set to toe the line for the race that starts at 9am on Wednesday 31 August.
“My main goal is to give the best performance for my country,” said Feitor, before traveling for the Championships. “I’m working to improve on tenth place in Berlin.”
iaaf.org, 23 August 2011