Christina Honsel, the high jumper from Dorsten, emerged victorious at the 21st Cottbus Springer Meeting, triumphing with an impressive height of 1.95 meters. This performance not only secured her the win but also marked the highest jump recorded by any German athlete this season, making it the first German victory at this event's history.
Taking place on January 29, 2025, and attended by 2,000 enthusiastic spectators at the sold-out Lausitzhalle, Honsel competed fiercely after making 13 jumps, including two third attempts. She achieved the height of 1.95 meters on her second attempt, which propelled her to second place on the current world annual best list. Honsel expressed her determination, stating, "Of course, two meters is my goal" after the competition.
Adding to the excitement of the event, U.S. pole vaulter Sam Kendricks also showcased his talent by winning the men's event, clearing 5.75 meters for his third victory at the Cottbus meeting. Kendricks praised the thrilling atmosphere, saying, "Cottbus simply offers the best atmosphere, and that's why it has been successful for 21 years."
Christina Honsel's achievement at Cottbus not only fills her with confidence as she prepares for the upcoming European Indoor Championships in Apeldoorn but also acts as a signal of promising performances for the remainder of the indoor season. Competing just under her personal best of 1.98 meters, she aims to improve her heights as the season progresses.
Robert Sammler, the newly appointed meeting director, was thrilled with the event's success. He noted the investment made by the city of Cottbus, which spent around 100,000 euros to install the rapid Mondo surface, ensuring high-quality performance conditions for athletes. Sammler's leadership followed the long tenure of the previous director, Uli Hobeck, and under his direction, the event garnered considerable attention, bringing together the world-class talent of female high jumpers and male pole vaulters alike.
To celebrate the historic victory, Honsel thanked the audience, saying, "You all are incredible," following her final leap. She hopes to continue building her legacy as one of Germany's top athletes by competing on February 7th at Weinheim, the site of her personal record.
Honsel was closely followed by Italy's Idea Pieroni, who finished second with 1.88 meters and Uzbekistan's Safina Sadullaeva, who took third place. Meanwhile, Kendricks was also joined on the podium by Philippine athlete Ernest John Obiena, who measured 5.65 meters.
The combination of top athletes and exhilarating performances resulted in unforgettable moments for fans and participants alike at the Cottbus Springer Meeting. Sammler expressed satisfaction with the event, having implemented several new features including enhanced visual elements, which have injected fresh energy to the traditional meeting.
The Cottbus Springer Meeting remains part of the prestigious World Indoor Tour, continuing to attract the best talent from around the globe. The newly refurbished event aims to appeal to younger audiences, combining athletics with engaging entertainment options, something Sammler hopes will solidify its future success.
Together, Honsel and Kendricks not only inspired spectators with their performances but also set the stage for the upcoming challenges and celebrations the athletic year has to offer. With both athletes performing exceptionally, they remain ones to watch as they aim for higher heights this season.