Shereen now sets sights on qualifying for the Olympics

BY: Patrick Beech

Securing two bronze medals in the women's 400m and 4x100m events at the Asian Games in Hangzhou recently, Shereen Samson Vallabouy is now gearing up for the 2024 season. 

Her sights are firmly set on qualifying for the Paris Olympics, alongside her ambitious goal of breaking four national records (in the 100m, 200m, 400m, and 800m). 

The 25-year-old athlete is now focused on surpassing her current national record of 51.80 to secure a place in the Olympic 400m event, as the qualifying standard stands at 50.95. 

Her coach, Derrick White, is confident the Florida-based runner can meet or exceed this mark by June. 

"Shereen will compete indoors from January to March due to the winter season in the United States," said White. 

The season for Shereen is over, and she will return to Florida next month to resume training. 

The 25-year-old Shereen had a remarkable 2023 season, setting new national records in the 400m (indoor — 51.80), 400m (indoor — 52.27), and 200m (outdoor — 23.33). 

She also claimed the 400m gold at the Phnom Penh Sea Games in May with a time of 52.53. 

"She will commence rigorous training sessions next month, which will be a new experience for her," White added.