Josh Hoey delivered another strong showing at the Paris Diamond League on Friday night, finishing second in the men’s 800m with a time of 1:43.00.
It was another close call with the elusive 1:42 barrier. However, he didn’t come away with the win, the American left the Stade Charléty encouraged.
“Yeah, good… a little sour coming that close to 1:42 again and giving up the lead,” Hoey said post-race. “But overall, happy to hang on at least as much as I did, and I’m hoping to continue the season rolling.”
“Out super hard,” Hoey explained. “Really busy race with a lot of top athletes. First 200 was maybe a little quick for the fast times, but yeah it was a hard race, so I’m happy to hold on.”
Josh Hoey also noted the absence of Kenyan star Emmanuel Wanyonyi, a regular front-runner in Diamond League races. “A bit different without Emmanuel in the race,” he remarked. “But still, it was a strong field.”
After controlling the race early once the pacer stepped aside, Hoey was overtaken in the final meters by Spain’s Mohamed Attaoui, who surged along the inside to clinch the win in a season-best 1:42.73. Bryce Hoppel of the U.S. followed in third with 1:43.11.
What next for Hoey?
As for what’s next, the 25-year-old Hoey is focused on keeping his rhythm through the European circuit. “I’m hoping to run the Austria 1500m on Tuesday,” he said , referring to the Gugl Games in Linz. It is an established meet known for middle-distance events. “Then hopefully stay in Europe until the 11th, and then go home for USAs.”
He also hinted at a potential appearance at the prestigious Monaco Diamond League. “I’m not exactly sure yet, but I hope so.”
