In a heartwarming display of sportsmanship, Belgian shot put and hammer throw specialist Jolien Boumkwo stepped onto the track for the 100-meter hurdles at the European Athletics Team Championships. This wasn't her usual event, but with two of Belgium's hurdlers injured, Boumkwo bravely took on the challenge to prevent her team's disqualification.

Images and videos captured Boumkwo's determination and positive spirit as she navigated the hurdles, ultimately finishing with a time of 32.81 seconds. While not a winning time, her effort ensured Belgium's continued participation in the competition. Spain's Teresa Errandonea won the race with a time of 13.22 seconds.

Following the race, Boumkwo shared her experience, noting her familiarity with hurdles from training. She expressed a unique sense of being in the spotlight, unlike her usual shot put competitions. She emphasized her lighthearted approach to athletics and her hope that her contribution would help keep Belgium in the top division.

According to Reuters, Belgium faced disqualification if they couldn't field a competitor for the hurdles. Boumkwo's selfless act allowed her team to complete the event. Despite her efforts, Belgium finished 14th out of 16 countries and was relegated from Division I.

The 29-year-old athlete has a long history representing Belgium internationally, starting with the 2011 European Junior Championships. More recently, she competed in the 2023 European Indoor Championships in Turkey. Boumkwo holds the Belgian national record for both indoor and outdoor shot put, with distances of 17.87 meters and 17.09 meters, respectively.