Written by Trackandmemes, on March 20, 2026
Currently, in Belgium, Jada-Nora Stassart is the new rising star in the 200 meters, with a national record achieved in 24.65 seconds. Jusqu’à ce jour, the previous record of 24.82 had not been matched since 2010 !
Affiliated with a club in Seraing, our cadet, only 14 years old, didn’t wait for the warmer days to shine on the track. Indeed, on March 14, 2026, on the track indoor in Louvain-la-Neuve, Jada-Nora won her heat with ease and claimed the Belgian record in the cadet category in the 200 meters.
Among women who practice sprint, breaking the 8.00-second barrier in 60 meters is a first milestone, which Jada-Nora briefly managed to reach during the 2023–2024 season. She then showed excellent consistency by progressing through several levels: 7.90 in the 60 meters, followed by a few races in 7.80, and eventually running 7.70.
Needless to say, the next milestone (7.60) is very close !
In the summer of 2025, she lines up in the 100 meters and crosses the finish line in 12.09 seconds !
We know that in athletics, reaching a good level is achieved step by step, an achievement that our cadet manages to reach in each of her disciplines sprint ; from the 60 m to the 100 m, finishing in style with the 200 m.
But who is she really ?
My presentation, by Jada-Nora
I first did multisport for eight years. Then I was redirected to athletics because I often asked to run during my training sessions. Apparently, I was already showing that I was capable of running at a good speed…
Who is your coach, and what is your relationship with him/her like?
My coach is François Gourmet. We have a very good relationship. I also have a second coach, David Pavone, with whom I also have a great connection.
François coaches already experienced athletes, with more specialized training. As for David, he offers an approach that is better suited to us, the younger athletes.
How do you manage your competitions ?
In general, I don’t get stressed during competitions. The stress only comes when I’m behind my starting-blocks. Because I’m afraid I won’t be able to get out of the blocks properly.
On several occasions, I’ve told myself that I wouldn’t manage to achieve certain times. I think this is because sometimes I stay stuck around the same performances for a while.
But what helps me a lot before my race is imagining myself executing my start. Another thing that makes me feel good during competitions isn’t music, like for many athletes, but the presence of my friends. They give me confidence during my races.
Among them, there is Giulia Plescia, Julie Cuppens and Kimya Kitoko.
Who is your idol in the world of athletics ?
My idol is Nafissatou Thiam. I started athletics thanks to her. When I was little and joined my first club, she was the star athlete.
I thought she was a wonderful person.
She gave a good impression at first glance. By learning more about her, I found out that she had always kept her head high despite the difficulties. I admired that. And even after meeting her in person, I found her to be lovely.
Your future aspirations ?
I started athletics almost eight years ago. My balance between sports and studies is good, with only three training sessions per week.
My greatest desire would be to take part in major international championships. But if we focus on my current schedule, I plan to go on a training camp in Metz (France) during the Easter holidays, as well as in Arlon (Belgium) this summer for the LBFA camp, which will take place from July 26 to 31, 2026.
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