WILSON SETS NEW 100M HURDLE GUAM RECORD

By Shania Bulala

Guam’s Hazel Wilson etched her name into the record books after setting a new Guam national record in the women’s 100-meter hurdles at the 2025 Oceania Cup held in Tonga on October 30. Wilson clocked an impressive time of 15.78, which surpassed Richelle Tugade’s previous record of 16.02 seconds set in 2019. 

At the Oceania Cup, Wilson faced fierce competition from powerhouse countries like Australia, Tahiti, Papua New Guinea, and Fiji. She managed to get in the mix of the heat and crossed the finish line to set a new Guam national record in the respective event. 

“Breaking the national record feels great and only encourages me to push harder,” Wilson said after her record-setting race. “I feel like I’m just getting started. I’m really grateful for all the support I’ve had, and holding this title has motivated me to keep pushing myself to see how much further I can go,” said Wilson. 

For Wilson, who is a home-school senior but runs for the GW Geckos, the trip to Tonga was about more than just medals or records – it was about gaining experience, connection, and confidence. Competing against some of Oceania’s best, she found inspiration and camaraderie amongst her competitors that extended beyond the finish line.

“The Oceania Cup in Tonga was an incredible experience,” she shared. “I felt really honored to be there and to compete alongside so many talented athletes from across Oceania. The atmosphere was so positive, supportive, and genuine. I learn a lot from international competitions that I take with me moving forward.” 

Wilson’s performance not only reflected her dedication to the sport but also her growing consistency to represent Guam and compete in international competitions. Having already competed in previous Oceania meets and the Pacific Mini Games this past summer in Palau (silver medal), she’s developed friendships with fellow hurdlers who continue to push her to higher levels. 

“The competition at the Oceania Cup was really strong. Everyone brought their best, which definitely pushed me to do the same,” Wilson said. “The girls from Tonga and I have become good friends, and our race times are always just a few hundredths of a second apart. Another close competitor, but also a friend off the track, is Kiara Gilroy from Tahiti, who won gold at the Pacific Games, with me taking silver right behind her.”

Wilson credits part of her development to training alongside Guam sprint icon Regine Tugade, whose influence continues to inspire the next generation of local track athletes.

“I’ve been able to stay competitive with these girls with the support I’ve gotten from training with Regine Tugade. With hard work, I believe I have more to give, and I have goals for when I meet them again at the next competition.”

With her sights set on future international competition, Wilson aims to continue raising the standard for Guam athletics by continuing to work hard and compete at the higher levels.