Hilla Uusimäki sets Finnish record in 400m hurdles: 'This was little Hilla's dream'

Hilla Uusimäki, 30, achieved a dream on Sunday, shattering the Finnish record in the 400-meter hurdles with an astonishing time of 54.28 seconds. The grueling race left her legs burning with lactic acid, but the reward was immense, as she shaved 0.12 seconds off Viivi Lehikoinen's previous record.

Visibly exhausted after crossing the finish line, Uusimäki spoke to MTV, admitting she felt unwell and was experiencing a headache, common after her intense runs. "My legs could barely carry me at the finish. The acid hit my body hard. I don't know if I can stand up," she said, still seated due to the exertion.

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My legs could barely carry me at the finish. The acid hit my body hard. I don't know if I can stand up.

Despite the record-breaking performance, Uusimäki felt her race wasn't technically perfect, particularly noting the need for fewer steps between hurdles, ideally 14, for greater efficiency. "This was little Hilla's dream," she emotionally stated, reflecting on her long journey to this achievement.

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This was little Hilla's dream.

Uusimäki's path to success has been unconventional. She only began to believe in her potential for top results relatively late in her career. Five years ago, she struggled with mental health issues and took a break from sports, also battling injuries and disordered eating. Adding to the challenge, she has been balancing her athletic ambitions with full-time work as a pharmacist.

"If there's even a little spark to continue in sports, you have to turn over every possible stone. Life is short when you can truly compete at a high level," Uusimäki advised aspiring athletes. She credits her parents for their unwavering belief and financial support, as well as her coach Petra Stenman. The record brings a significant bonus, including 3,000 euros for the new Finnish record, and potentially more if she is named the best athlete of the day. Uusimäki hopes her performance will propel her into the top 12 of the European Championships rankings, securing a direct spot in the semifinals.

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If there's even a little spark to continue in sports, you have to turn over every possible stone. Life is short when you can truly compete at a high level.