Athletics Nova Scotia – Nikkita “Nikki” Holder, one of the group of elite female hurdlers who have led Canada’s international athletics teams in recent years, is returning again for the Aileen Meagher International Track Classic at Huskies Stadium in Halifax on June 10^th.

This will be Holder’s sixth appearance in a string that started in 2012. She has always shown that lightning quick form over the 100 meter hurdles that has made this such an exciting and entertaining event to watch. The hurdles kick off the meet at 6:30 pm.

Unlike previous years when “Nikki’s” race at the Meagher has followed several earlier meets, this year it will be the beginning of her racing season. Her plan is to be fresher later in the summer when she hopes to be competing in the World Championships in London provided she qualifies from the Canadian Championships in early July.

Competition in the women’s hurdles at the Meagher has always been fierce. This year brings twin challenges as Holder’s competition in the form of American sisters Kaila Barber with a 12.91 personal best, and Jade Barber with a 12.85.

Asked what keeps her coming back to the Meagher where wet and windy weather has sometimes not been helpful for achieving world class times Holder responds “What keeps bringing me back is the atmosphere. The weather is definitely not the greatest but everyone makes the best of it. “ 

As an international veteran Nikki Holder has her sights set high, but knows the physical and mental challenges of maintaining elite levels. “I have my eyes set on all the major games to come, however I am taking it year by year.“

Track fans in Halifax have been fortunate to see Nikki Holder for so many years at the Aileen Meagher meet. They can hope she’ll be returning for even more years to headline an exciting women’s hurdles race.

Info:

Randy Barkhouse

randy.barkhouse@dal.ca