Cook Islands sprinter Daniel Tolosa hopes to set a new national record at the 2025 World Indoor Athletics Champions in China.

Tolosa had equalled the longstanding 60 metre national record of 7.23 seconds at last year’s championship in Glasgow, Scotland.

The national record was set by Harmon Harmon on March 5, 2004, at the World Championships in Budapest, Hungary.

Speaking to Cook Islands News, Tolosa said: “Training and preparation has been good, however, I’ve had to deal with a few niggles the past few weeks.

“I have been competing in the New Zealand season for the last couple of months, and preparing for the New Zealand Nationals which will take place in early March.

“It’ll lead up well towards the indoor championship mid-March where I’ll end my 2024/2025 season.”

Tolosa says he is looking forward to competing on the big stage again and performing better than he had before.

Daniel Tolosa (middle) with Piritau Nga (left) and coach Matthew Wyatt. SUPPLIED/ 25010712

He said his coach Matthew Wyatt believes his 60m is in good shape.

“I had run 7.23 last world indoor champs and have improved since then on the outdoor track over the 60m distance.

“My current PB (personal best) is 7.20 and if my preparation from here on out goes smoothly and if it’s in God’s will I aim to set a new Cook Island record in China.”

Athletics Cook Islands president Simone Fe’ao says Tolosa has had a great year training in New Zealand under coach Matt Wyatt and his 2024/25 has started well with some good results in the New Zealand athletics season.