Controversial Selection of Sharon Firisua for 100m

The selection of marathon runner Sharon Firisua for the Solomon Islands' lone women's 100 meters spot at the Paris Olympics has sparked controversy. Firisua, who typically competes in marathons and finished 72nd in the Tokyo Olympics marathon, was chosen over the country's top sprinters, including Jovita Arunia, who expressed disbelief and threatened to quit the sport. The Solomon Islands Athletics Federation had recommended sprinters for the wildcard spot, but the national Olympic committee ultimately decided to nominate Firisua. Firisua stumbled in her first 100m race, finishing last with a time of 14.31 seconds. The decision remains contentious, with Firisua avoiding press interactions post-race.