The Belgian athletics delegation has left the European Indoor Championships in Turkey with a pack of medals and good performances. Commentator Marc Willems takes stock. “Crestan and Carmoy will certainly continue to participate at European level.”
Was this the best European Indoor Championship ever for the Belgians?
“We must wholeheartedly conclude that this was the best European indoor championship ever for the Belgians,” says athletics commentator Marc Willems. “Two years ago we won 5 medals and that was the case then.”
“There are not only the medals, but also a lot of places in the finals for young Belgians. Just think of Rani Rosius and Delphine Nkansa on the 60m. There are still a lot of achievements.”
Will Crestan and Carmoy still compete for championship medals?
“I assume so. They are both still very young. Carmoy was by far the youngest in the high jump final at 23. At European level I definitely see him competing for medals. He may not have the physique of the absolute top jumpers, but he has a very cool technique.”
“Crestan has already proven in a number of championships that he can run well tactically and has a good final shot. He was perhaps the best man in the race, but had to fight too much and therefore consumed too much energy.”
Can we already conclude that the change of coach was the right one for Thiam?
“It would detract from Roger Lespagnard’s performance to say it was a good decision. He has also achieved fantastic performances with Thiam.”
“But I think Thiam was ready for a new stimulus, a new challenge. This European Championship was a test to see if the new approach worked. If you then become European indoor champion and improve the world record, then you have to be satisfied. is on the right track. I also thought that Thiam was sharp and shining in her skin. She was positive and looking forward to what will happen at the World Cup this summer.”
Marc Willems’ analysis in Sportweekend:
