Masa Garic, Bosnia and Herzegovina's top junior athlete, has secured a spot at the U20 World Athletics Championship in Lima, despite nearly missing out due to financial constraints. Alongside another athlete, she will represent her country in Peru.

“I’m very excited to go to the World Championship and represent my homeland in Lima. I will give my best to achieve great results,” Masa told DW while training with her coach, Edhem Edo Bajric.

Coach Bajric expressed pride in Masa’s qualification, emphasizing her potential to reach the semifinals in the 400-meter hurdles. Despite achieving remarkable results, including breaking national records, the journey to the championship was fraught with challenges, particularly due to financial difficulties.

“There was lobbying within the Athletics Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina to prevent our athletes from going to the World Championship due to lack of funds,” revealed Elmir Cerimagic, co-founder of the Novi Grad Athletics Club, where Masa trains.

Ultimately, through persistence and last-minute efforts, Coach Bajric secured the necessary sponsorship to accompany Masa to Lima, ensuring that Bosnia and Herzegovina will be represented on the global stage.