Anna Stroumpou produced one of the most significant performances in Greek junior athletics history at the World U20 Athletics Championships in Eugene, USA, finishing seventh in the 3,000 metres steeplechase in 10:00.63.
The 19-year-old athlete improved the Greek U20 national record in the event for the second time at the championships and became the eighth Greek woman of all time to achieve the mark.
Stroumpou, coached by Christos Papachristou, maintained her composure throughout the race and recovered well from mistakes at the water jump. She also avoided getting drawn into the fast early pace set by several competitors, many of whom faded later in the race.
The Greek athlete produced a powerful final 400 metres and an excellent finish, moving from ninth to seventh place.
Stroumpou returned to training this year after stepping away from athletics because of her school commitments. In just one season, she has achieved a series of personal milestones through hard work and consistency.
Kosmopoulos makes strong decathlon start
Nikos Kosmopoulos also delivered a strong performance on the opening day of the decathlon, producing marks close to the Greek national record and remaining in contention for a medal.
Kosmopoulos finished the first day in sixth place with 4,078 points, but only a small number of points separate him from the athletes ahead of him.
France’s Lanourien leads with 4,258 points, followed by Da Silva on 4,159, Von de Heiden on 4,133, Sorki on 4,120 and Berglund on 4,086.
During the afternoon session, Kosmopoulos cleared 1.91 metres in the high jump, matching his season best, and clocked 48.28 seconds in the 400 metres.
With the second day of the decathlon still to come, the Greek athlete remains within striking distance of the podium.
