17 June 2010

The world’s leading high jumper American Chaunte Howard-Lowe is aiming for record heights at the Super8 athletics event in Glasgow next month.

The world indoor bronze medallist who leads the world rankings with 2.04m this season has joined USA compatriots Lolo Jones, Dwight Phillips and Lauryn Williams in confirming her attendance at the revamped Scotstoun Stadium on Wednesday July 7.

And Lowe has revealed she is aiming high – quite literally – hoping to celebrate reopening of the Scotstoun Stadium by setting a new stadium record.

The 26-year-old will represent London – who also include Olympic bronze medallist Tasha Danvers and javelin star Goldie Sayers in their squad –  in the eight-team City v City challenge and arrives in Scotland in stunning form after breaking the US national record in May.

And with the Scotstoun Stadium record standing at 1.98m by her USA compatriot Amy Acuff – a full six centimetres shorter than Howard-Lowe’s new personal best – she is keen to make history in Glasgow.

“I wasn’t aware of the record but I’m definitely going to aim for that now!” said Howard-Lowe.

“It should be well within my capabilities so that would be a nice way of getting maximum points for the London team.

“I’ve been pleased with how my season has gone so far and getting the national record was nice – hopefully I can keep going and perform well for the passionate Glasgow crowd.

“I competed in Glasgow indoors earlier this year so I know exactly what to expect from the Scottish crowd.

“I really enjoyed the city and meeting the people up there and I’m confident there will be a fantastic atmosphere at the Scotstoun.”

Super8 is returning to the athletics programme in 2010 after a hugely successful pilot event in Cardiff last year.

Two additional Super8 Schools medley relays have also been added to the programme this year to showcase the youngsters taking place in the earlier Schools Super8 competition that precedes the evening programme.

And Howard-Lowe added: “One of my biggest concerns is obesity in children so I think anything that gets kids active is a great idea.

“I know that in the US, physical education lessons are actually decreasing which is a major concern.

“I would encourage all kids to get active and the Super8 schools event is a great way for them to do that in Scotland.”

Other top athletes already confirmed for the action-packed two-hour competition include Olympic 400m champion Christine Ohuruogu, World Championship bronze medallist Jenny Meadows, 2008 World Indoor silver medallist Chris Tomlinson and sprint duo Christian Malcolm and Mark-Lewis Francis.

Tickets for the event cost £5 for adults, £1 for concessions and £8 for a family ticket of 2 adults and 2 children. Tickets are available by visiting www.uka.org.uk/super8 or calling the Ticket Hotline on 08000 556056.