Running News Daily

France’s Jimmy Gressier stunned the athletics world in Tokyo Sept 14, sprinting past Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha in the final strides to claim the men’s 10,000m world title. His winning time of 28:55.77wasn’t about records — it was about patience, tactics, and a devastating final kick. With that surge, Gressier became the first non–East African-born world champion in the event since 1983.

But for those who have followed his career, this moment wasn’t magic out of thin air. It was years in the making.

Building Blocks: Cross-Country and U23 Glory

Born May 4, 1997, in Boulogne-sur-Mer, France, Gressier’s rise began on the fields of European cross-country. Between 2017 and 2019, he won three consecutive U23 European Cross-Country Championships, showcasing his toughness in cold, muddy races far from the track’s bright lights.

At the 2019 European U23 Championships, he doubled up to win gold in both the 5,000m and 10,000m, proving his versatility and hinting at bigger things to come.

Records on Track and Road

Gressier has rewritten France’s distance running records, and in some cases Europe’s.

• European 5K road record: In 2025, he became the first European to break the 13-minute barrier on the roads, clocking 12:57.

• French national records: He has owned the national bests in both the 5,000m and 10,000m on the track.

• Range: From 3,000m indoors to road races, Gressier has consistently proven his speed and endurance.

These performances made him one of Europe’s most promising distance runners, but until Tokyo he hadn’t converted that talent into senior global hardware.

Close Calls and Lessons Learned

The near misses added to his hunger.

• At the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, he finished 13th in the 5,000m.

• At the 2022 World Championships in Eugene, he placed 11th in the 10,000m.

• At the 2022 European Championships in Munich, he narrowly missed the podium, finishing 4th in the 10,000m.

Each result showed progress, but also left him on the outside looking in when medals were awarded.

The Breakthrough in Tokyo

That changed on a humid night at the 2025 World Championships. The men’s 10,000m was run cautiously, the pack conserving energy for the inevitable burn-up over the final lap. When the bell rang, Gressier positioned himself perfectly. His closing burst in the home straight carried him past Kejelcha by just 0.06 seconds, with Sweden’s Andreas Almgren snatching bronze behind them.

It was a win not just for Gressier, but for European distance running — a reminder that the East African dominance of the 10,000m can be challenged.

Jimmy Gressier celebrates on the biggest stage

Until a few weeks ago, Jimmy Gressier was best known internationally for his celebrations, in particular at the European U23 cross country championshiops. Then he won the Diamond League final at 3000m with a big kick over Grant Fisher. Now he is world champion at 10,000m. He said, “It was a dream, and today I can say it: I am world champion.”

Gressier had shown flashes internationally (5th at the World Road Running Champs in the half marathon), but nothing on the track. He was 13th at last year’s Olympics (one spot behind Nico Young) and only 5th in a tactical European 10,000. He had never medalled at Europeans on the track and had a best finish of just ninth in four previous global finals across the 5,000 and 10,000. But he has run pbs this year in the 1500 (3:32), 3000 (7:30), and 5,000 (12:51), and after his big finish got him the Diamond League win, Gressier said he started to believe anything was possible at Worlds.

He explained: “I surprised myself in Zurich, but not today… I knew I could repeat the same plan, and that’s exactly what happened.” Gressier waited until the final 100m to attack and zig-zagged down the home straight to the title.

What Comes Next

At only 28, Gressier’s career is still entering its peak. With records behind him and now a world title to his name, the Frenchman has options: chasing more global medals on the track, doubling up in the 5,000m, or testing himself further on the roads.

For now, his Tokyo triumph stands as a moment of validation. Years of persistence, hard lessons, and belief came together in a single sprint — and Jimmy Gressier crossed into history.

Eugene, Oregon – July 31, 2025

Nico Young delivered a career-defining performance on Wednesday night at the 2025 USATF Outdoor Championships, storming to victory in the men’s 10,000 meters with a closing display that left the crowd at Hayward Field in awe.

In a tightly contested final, Young surged past established veterans Grant Fisher and Graham Blanks with a stunning final lap of 56.54 seconds, covering the last 1600 meters in under four minutes—an extraordinary finish in a championship 10K. His winning time: 29:02.12.

Grant Fisher, one of the most accomplished distance runners in U.S. history, claimed the silver medal in 29:02.37, while rising star Graham Blanks, fresh off a record-breaking collegiate season, secured bronze in 29:02.43.

“What a way to end the night in Eugene,” echoed the sentiments of fans and announcers alike as Young crossed the line, arms raised in triumph.

At just 22 years old, Young’s victory represents a passing of the torch and a new era in American distance running. Known for his aggressive style and fearless front-running as a collegiate athlete at Northern Arizona University, Young has now proven he can execute a tactical race and close with world-class speed—a critical asset on the international stage.

The men’s 10,000m capped an electric night of competition at Hayward Field and set the tone for the rest of the championships. With this performance, Young not only claimed his first national title but also firmly established himself as a contender for global medals in the years ahead.

Men’s 10,000m – Final Results

• Nico Young – 29:02.12 (National Champion)

• Grant Fisher – 29:02.37 (National Runner-Up)

• Graham Blanks – 29:02.43 (National Bronze)

Stay tuned to My Best Runs for continued coverage of the 2025 USATF Outdoor Championships and road to the World Championships.

Eugene, Oregon – The stage is set for another electrifying weekend at iconic Hayward Field, as the Toyota U.S.A. Track & Field Outdoor Championships take place this Saturday and Sunday at 4 p.m. ET, airing live on NBC and Peacock.

Some of the sport’s biggest stars will be headlining the meet, including Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone and Noah Lyles, two of America’s premier track and field athletes.

McLaughlin-Levrone, the reigning Olympic and World Champion in the 400m hurdles, is returning to the national spotlight after a strategic training and race schedule this season. Known for her graceful power and impeccable technique, Sydney has already redefined what’s possible in her event—shattering the world record multiple times. Fans are eager to see whether she’ll contest the 400m flat or return to the hurdles in Eugene.

On the men’s side, all eyes are on Noah Lyles, the reigning World Champion in the 100m and 200m. Lyles has made it clear he’s aiming for greatness this year, with both Olympic gold and world records on his radar. His recent performances on the Diamond League circuit suggest he’s peaking at the right time.

Distance Running Update: Eyes on the 1500m, 5000m, and 10,000m

The distance events promise fierce battles and major implications for Team USA selection.

In the men’s 1500m, all eyes will be on Yared Nuguse, who owns one of the fastest times in American history. He’ll be challenged by Cole Hocker, who famously stormed to an Olympic team spot in 2021, and NCAA standout Hobbs Kessler, who continues to climb the ranks.

The women’s 1500m will feature Nikki Hiltz, Emily Mackay, and Sinclaire Johnson, with Hiltz in standout form after their impressive road mile performances this season.

In the 5000m, American record holder Woody Kincaid will take on Grant Fisher, who’s back after injury and hungry to reclaim his place at the top. The women’s 5000m will include Elise Cranny, Karissa Schweizer, and Parker Valby, in what could be one of the most tactical races of the meet.

The 10,000m has already been contested earlier in the season, but the championship weekend will set the tone for the athletes’ final preparations ahead of international competition.

As always, Hayward Field brings the best out of American distance runners—expect fireworks as the fields chase not only titles, but Olympic dreams.

Catch the action live on NBC and Peacock.

Event: Toyota U.S.A. Track & Field Outdoor Championships

Location: Hayward Field, Eugene, Oregon

Broadcast: Saturday & Sunday at 4 p.m. ET on NBC & Peacock

In a performance that shook the foundations of U.S. distance running, Nico Young stormed to a stunning 12:45.27 at the Oslo Diamond League on June 12. Not only did he win the race, but he also demolished the American 5000m record, vaulting himself into the top ranks of global distance running.

The 21-year-old’s breakthrough marks the fastest 5000m ever run by an American and the fourth-fastest time in world history outdoors. His average lap was 61.4 seconds—roughly 4:06 per mile or 2:33 per kilometer—executed against one of the deepest fields ever assembled.

Standout Performances with Official Times

• Nico Young (USA) – 12:45.27 – ?? American Record

• George Mills (GBR) – 12:46.59 – ?? British National Record

• Thierry Ndikumwenayo (Burundi) – 12:47.67 – Personal Best

• Dominic Lokinyomo Lobalu (Switzerland) – 12:50.87 – ?? Swiss National Record

This was a race defined by speed, grit, and history-making performances. Eight athletes reportedly broke 12:51—unprecedented in Diamond League competition. National records fell on three continents.

Young’s Path to Greatness

Nico Young’s rise began at Newbury Park High School, where he set high school records and led his team to national titles. At Northern Arizona University, he continued to dominate, becoming a multi-time NCAA All-American before turning pro with Adidas.

Training under coach Mike Smith, Young has honed not just his endurance but also his race instincts—perfectly on display in Oslo as he timed his final surge to perfection against the best in the world.

A New Standard

Young’s 12:45.27 surpasses Grant Fisher’s previous American record of 12:46.96 set in 2022. His time now ranks him behind only three men in history: Joshua Cheptegei, Kenenisa Bekele, and Hagos Gebrhiwet.

With this performance, Nico Young has redefined what’s possible for American distance runners and firmly positioned himself as one of the most exciting young talents in the sport.

Grant Fisher’s 2025 season is turning heads in the distance running world, fueled by a meticulous training approach and record-breaking results. After parting ways with the Bowerman Track Club in late 2023, Fisher reunited with his high school coach, Mike Scannell, relocating to Park City, Utah, to embark on a highly personalized training journey.

A Tailored Training Philosophy

Fisher’s approach under Scannell emphasizes adaptability and precision. Rather than chasing high-intensity sessions, he focuses on building endurance through consistent threshold training. Workouts are adjusted in real time, ensuring optimal stress without overtraining. This shift has increased his workout frequency while maintaining a sustainable load—striking a balance between challenge and recovery.

Record-Breaking Results

Fisher’s new regimen has already paid dividends. In February 2025, he stunned the track world with two indoor world records: a blistering 7:22.91 in the 3000 meters at the Millrose Games and a 12:44.09 in the 5000 meters at the BU Valentine Invitational. These performances not only demonstrate his refined fitness but also his ability to peak precisely when it matters.

Innovative Workouts and Recovery

One standout session highlighted his evolving approach: Fisher capped a 7-kilometer workout with a sub-4-minute mile. The session included a hard 2000-meter effort, 4x800-meter intervals at moderate pace, and a closing 1600-meter sprint, all designed to mimic race-day demands while carefully monitoring lactate levels.

Equally essential to his training is recovery. Fisher deliberately schedules breaks to recharge and maintain peak form. After his indoor heroics, he took a recovery period until mid-March, balancing performance with longevity.

Eyes on the Future

Looking ahead, Fisher is focused on refining his form and exploring opportunities to train with a partner who shares his goals. His trajectory this year is a testament to the power of tailored coaching, strategic adaptation, and a deep commitment to recovery.

For runners everywhere, Fisher’s journey offers a masterclass in balancing intensity with sustainability—proof that precision training can unlock world-class results.

This weekend, the historic Franklin Field in Philadelphia transformed into the heart of global athletics as the Grand Slam Track (GST) continued its groundbreaking season. With packed stands, a star-studded lineup, and record-breaking performances, the meet was nothing short of electrifying.

At the center of the action was Olympic champion Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, who turned heads by stepping away from her signature 400m hurdles to focus on the 100m hurdles. “It’s definitely been a shift these past few weeks, but it’s been great to work on sprint mechanics, block start, and hurdle technique,” Sydney said via The Athletic. While her mastery in longer races is legendary, she’s embracing this shorter sprint with confidence. Fans eagerly anticipate her performance as she lines up for the 100m hurdles on Sunday.

Saturday’s action delivered drama and brilliance across all distances:

Marco Arop’s Command in the Men’s 800m

Canada’s Marco Arop dominated the men’s 800m, clocking an impressive 1:43.38 to claim his third consecutive GST victory. He surged ahead of American Josh Hoey (1:44.41), thrilling the Philadelphia crowd. “It’s easy to run fast in a stadium like this, so I had to put on a show for them,” Arop said with a smile.

 Diribe Welteji’s Record-Breaking 1500m

In the women’s 1500m, Ethiopia’s Diribe Welteji stunned the field with a championship record of 3:58.04. Hot on her heels were Australia’s Jessica Hull (3:58.36) and American Nikki Hiltz (4:00.54), making it one of the most thrilling races of the day.

 Tactical Wins in the 3000m

Kenya’s Agnes Jebet Ngetich showcased her tactical brilliance in the women’s 3000m, edging out Ethiopia’s Ejgayehu Taye by just 0.09 seconds with a winning time of 8:43.61. In the men’s 3000m, American Grant Fisher delivered a commanding performance, leading from start to finish.

What’s Next?

Sunday promises even more excitement as athletes return to the track. Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone’s 100m hurdles debut is a highlight, alongside fierce battles in the sprints, middle distance, and field events.

The Philadelphia meet is part of GST’s mission to reshape professional track and field with a streamlined format, significant prize money, and a focus on athlete-driven competition. With a total prize pool of $12.6 million and top winners earning $100,000, the stakes are high.

Fans can tune in live on Peacock and The CW in the U.S. or follow highlights through international broadcasters.

As the athletes gear up for the final day in Philadelphia, one thing is clear: the Grand Slam Track is redefining what it means to race.

The 50th edition of the Prefontaine Classic, set for July 5 at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon, promises to be one of the most exciting track meets of the year. Headlining the event is three-time Olympic gold medalist Faith Kipyegon, who returns to the Pre Classic in search of her seventh career victory in the women’s 1500m.

Kipyegon, the world record holder in both the 1500m (3:49.04) and the mile (4:07.64), shattered the 1500m mark in Paris on July 7, 2024. Now, nearly a year later, she’ll look to reassert her dominance in front of a packed crowd at one of the sport’s most prestigious meets.

Joining Kipyegon in the 1500m are her fellow 2024 Olympic medalists—silver medalist Jessica Hull of Australia and bronze medalist Georgia Bell of Great Britain. Hull, a former University of Oregon standout, also holds the current world record in the 2000m.

But Kipyegon isn’t the only big name set to thrill fans in Eugene. The men’s Bowerman Mile will feature a stacked lineup that includes:

• Jakob Ingebrigtsen (Norway) – Olympic gold medalist and multiple-time Bowerman Mile champion

• Cole Hocker (USA) – 2024 Olympic 1500m champion

• Yared Nuguse (USA) – Olympic bronze medalist and former indoor mile world record holder

• Timothy Cheruiyot (Li Kenya) – Former world champion

• Jake Wightman (Great Britain) – 2022 world champion

• Grant Fisher (USA) – Olympic bronze medalist in both the 5000m and 10,000m

• Plus rising stars including Oliver Hoare, Neil Gourley, Azeddine Habz, Hobbs Kessler, Niels Laros, Cameron Myers, Stefan Nillessen, and Reynold Cheruiyot

In the men’s 400m hurdles, Olympic silver medalist Rai Benjamin will headline a competitive field that also includes CJ Allen, Trevor Bassitt, Clement Ducos, Malik James-King, Abderrahman Samba, and Assinie Wilson.

The 2025 Prefontaine Classic will feature 14 Diamond League disciplines, including the women’s 800m, 5000m, and 3000m steeplechase—each with world-class fields expected to be announced soon.

As the sport celebrates this milestone edition of the Pre Classic, the meet is shaping up to be not just a tune-up for global championships, but a showcase of track and field at its absolute best.

The final day of the Grand Slam Track meet in Miami concluded with thrilling performances and significant prize money awarded to top athletes. Held at the Ansin Sports Complex from May 2–4, this event marked the second stop in the inaugural Grand Slam Track series, founded by Olympic legend Michael Johnson.

Top Performers and Prize Money Winners

The Grand Slam Track series features six event groups, each comprising two disciplines. Athletes accumulate points across both events, with the highest total determining the group champion. Winners receive $100,000, with payouts extending to the eighth place at $10,000.

Men’s Short Sprints (100m & 200m):

Kenny Bednarek secured victories in both the 100m (9.79 seconds, wind-aided) and 200m (19.84 seconds), earning the maximum 24 points and the $100,000 prize.

Women’s Long Hurdles (400m Hurdles & 400m):

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone dominated her events, including a 400m win in 49.69 seconds, clinching her second consecutive Grand Slam title and $100,000.

Men’s Short Distance (800m & 1500m):

Josh Kerr won the 1500m in 3:34.51 and placed fifth in the 800m with a personal best of 1:45.01, accumulating 16 points to secure the group title and $100,000.

Women’s Short Sprints (100m & 200m):

Melissa Jefferson-Wooden became the first athlete to win back-to-back Grand Slam titles, winning the 100m in 10.75 seconds and placing third in the 200m, totaling 18 points and earning $100,000.

Men’s Long Distance (3000m & 5000m):

Grant Fisher won the 5000m, securing enough points to top the long-distance group and take home $100,000.

“I need to be ready to win in a lot of different scenarios,” said Grant Fisher after his dominant performance in the men’s 5000m at the Grand Slam Track meet in Miami. The U.S. star closed with a blistering 3:57.58 over the final 1600 meters, showcasing both tactical patience and lethal finishing speed en route to his 13:40.32 victory over 12.5 laps.

Women’s Long Distance (3000m & 5000m):

Agnes Jebet Ngetich won the 5000m with a time of 14:25.80, setting a course record and claiming the group title and $100,000.

Prize Money Structure

The Grand Slam Track series offers substantial financial incentives:

First-place finishers in each event group receive $100,000. Second place earns $50,000, third place takes home $30,000, and fourth place is awarded $25,000. Fifth through eighth places receive $20,000, $15,000, $12,500, and $10,000 respectively. This structure ensures that all finalists receive compensation, promoting competitive participation across the board.

Emerging Stars and Notable Performances

Several athletes delivered standout performances:

• Andrew Coscoran: The Irish runner won the 3000m in 8:17.56, marking the biggest victory of his career.

• Masai Russell: Set a new American record in the 100m hurdles with a time of 12.17 seconds, the second-fastest in history.

• Peter Bol: The Australian middle-distance runner earned $30,000 in his Grand Slam Track debut, showcasing his potential in the league.

Looking Ahead

With two events completed, the Grand Slam Track series moves to Philadelphia and Los Angeles. Athletes will continue to compete for significant prize money and the coveted “Racer of the Year” title, awarded to the top male and female athletes based on cumulative points across all four Slams.

The opening day of the Grand Slam Track meet in Miami lived up to its billing as one of the most exciting events on the global track calendar. Held at the Ansin Sports Complex on May 2, the meet delivered fast times, dramatic finishes, and a new American record—all under sunny Florida skies.

Masai Russell Breaks American Record in 100m Hurdles

Olympic gold medalist Masai Russell stole the spotlight by breaking the American record in the women’s 100m hurdles, clocking an incredible 12.17 seconds. The performance makes her the second-fastest woman in history behind Nigeria’s Tobi Amusan. In a race stacked with talent, Tia Jones followed closely in 12.19—now the third-fastest time ever—and Jamaica’s Ackera Nugent rounded out the podium with 12.34.

Melissa Jefferson-Wooden Sprints to 100m Win

In the women’s 100m, Melissa Jefferson-Wooden delivered a statement win with a wind-aided 10.75, continuing her strong 2025 campaign. Tamari Davis and Favour Ofili followed in a fiercely contested race that highlighted the depth of American sprinting.

Josh Kerr Outkicks Nuguse in 1500m Showdown

Great Britain’s Josh Kerr triumphed in a thrilling men’s 1500m, edging out top Americans Yared Nuguse and Cole Hocker with a 3:34.51 finish. Kerr’s victory marked a confident return to form after a quieter performance in Kingston earlier in the season.

World Lead for Jereem Richards in 200m

Trinidad & Tobago’s Jereem Richards ran a world-leading 19.86 in the men’s 200m, narrowly holding off Alexander Ogando of the Dominican Republic. Meanwhile, Marileidy Paulino continued her dominance in the women’s 400m, winning in 49.21 over Salwa Eid Naser.

Irish Victory in the 3000m

Ireland’s Andrew Coscoran claimed the men’s 3000m title with a time of 8:17.56, edging out American Grant Fisher and Great Britain’s George Mills. The distance event proved to be one of the day’s most tactical and tightly packed races.

Ngetich Leads Kenyan Charge in 5000m

Kenya’s Agnes Jebet Ngetich controlled the women’s 5000m from the gun, finishing in a commanding 14:25.80. Ethiopia’s Medina Eisa and Hirut Meshesha gave chase, but couldn’t close the gap—another chapter in the ongoing Kenya-Ethiopia distance rivalry.

What’s Next

With more events set for the weekend, the Grand Slam Track’s Miami stop is already shaping up to be one of the season’s most memorable. The combination of elite talent, fast conditions, and prize money incentives has brought the very best to the starting line—and the fans are reaping the rewards.

The inaugural Grand Slam Track event, held from April 4–6, 2025, at Jamaica’s National Stadium in Kingston, marked a transformative moment in professional track and field. Spearheaded by Olympic legend Michael Johnson, the series aims to revitalize the sport by offering substantial prize money and a unique competition format.

Innovative Competition Format

Grand Slam Track introduces a fresh approach to track and field competitions. Athletes are divided into 12 event groups—six for men and six for women—each comprising two disciplines:

• Short Sprints: 100m and 200m

• Long Sprints: 200m and 400m

• Short Hurdles: 100m hurdles (women), 110m hurdles (men)

• Long Hurdles: 400m hurdles and 400m

• Short Distance: 800m and 1500m

• Long Distance: 3000m and 5000m 

Over three days, competitors face off in both events within their group, earning points based on their performances. Points are awarded as follows: 

• 1st place: 12 points

• 2nd place: 8 points

• 3rd place: 6 points

• 4th place: 5 points

• 5th place: 4 points

• 6th place: 3 points

• 7th place: 2 points

• 8th place: 1 point  

The athlete with the highest combined score in each group is crowned the “Slam Champion” and awarded a $100,000 prize. In total, $1.2 million was distributed among the 12 group winners in Kingston, contributing to the event’s overall prize pool of $3.15 million.

Standout Performances

• Grant Fisher: The American distance runner secured the men’s long-distance Slam Champion title. Fisher won the 5000m in 14:39.14 and placed third in the 3000m with a time of 8:03.85, accumulating the highest points in his group and earning $100,000.

• Kenny Bednarek: Bednarek dominated the men’s short sprints, winning both the 100m in 10.07 seconds and 200m in 20.07 seconds. His flawless performance earned him the maximum 24 points and the $100,000 prize.

• Gabby Thomas: Thomas showcased her versatility by winning the women’s 200m in 22.62 seconds and finishing second in the 400m with a personal best of 49.14 seconds. Her combined results secured her the women’s long sprints title and a $100,000 award.

Challenges in Attracting Top Talent

Despite the substantial prize money and innovative format, the Grand Slam Track series has faced challenges in attracting some of the sport’s top athletes. Notably absent from the Kingston event were Olympic 100m champion Noah Lyles and double Olympic champion Jakob Ingebrigtsen. Lyles had previously indicated he would only participate if the league secured a broadcast partner, which it now has with deals on The CW and Peacock. However, he has yet to join the roster. Ingebrigtsen, on the other hand, reportedly declined participation due to the format requiring athletes to compete in two corresponding disciplines within an event category, which may not align with his specialization. 

Financial and Attendance Concerns

The Kingston event, while successful in terms of athlete performances, struggled with low attendance. Reports indicate that the main grandstands never reached 50% capacity on any of the three days, with other sections remaining largely empty. Limited on-site parking and inadequate local marketing were cited as contributing factors to the sparse turnout. Financially, while the league has secured over $30 million in commitments from investors and strategic partners, the inaugural event’s low attendance and high operational costs suggest that it may have operated at a loss. However, organizers view this as a long-term investment in the sport’s revitalization.  

Historical Context

Grand Slam Track is not the first attempt to establish a professional track and field league. The International Track Association (ITA), which operated from 1972 to 1976, initially attracted many top athletes but ultimately folded due to a lack of television revenue and difficulties in sustaining athlete participation. Similarly, the American Track League, founded more recently, has struggled to gain significant traction. These historical precedents highlight the challenges inherent in creating a sustainable professional track and field league.   

Looking Ahead

The Grand Slam Track series continues with upcoming events in Miami (May 2–4), Philadelphia (May 30–June 1), and Los Angeles (June 20–22). Each meet follows the same format, offering athletes the opportunity to compete for significant prize money and fans the chance to witness high-stakes, head-to-head competition.

The U.S. distance team dominated under the lights in Kingston, Jamaica April 4 as Grant Fisher captured the men’s 5000m title on opening night of the Grand Slam Track series, earning $100,000 and recording the biggest international outdoor win of his career.

Fisher surged to the front with 600 meters to go and never looked back, crossing the line in 13:00.25, a world-class season opener. He was followed by Cooper Teare, who finished second in 13:01.74, and Dylan Jacobs, who rounded out the American sweep with a time of 13:04.10.

“It felt good to get out and compete,” Fisher said post-race. “This series is something new, and it’s exciting to be part of something that brings big-time racing to new places. Jamaica was loud, fast, and fun.”

This was the debut event of the Grand Slam Track series, designed to bring elite track and field to new global venues with big prize money and a fan-first atmosphere. The Kingston crowd delivered with high energy, and the athletes responded with one of the fastest early-season 5000m races ever run on Jamaican soil.

Fisher, a two-time Olympian and former Stanford standout, walked away not just with a win, but with one of the largest single-race payouts in track distance running history—$100,000 for first place. The prize money is part of Grand Slam Track’s mission to elevate the sport and reward top-tier performances.

The U.S. sweep sends a powerful message heading into the heart of the 2025 season. With the next Grand Slam Track meet on the horizon, Fisher and his teammates have momentum—and the world is watching.

Graham Blanks delivered a sensational performance in Boston, setting a monster personal best of 7:29.72 in the 3000m. This remarkable time makes him the second fastest American in history over the distance, cementing his status as one of the brightest young talents in the sport.

Racing in a high-caliber field, Blanks—representing New Balance—executed a masterful race, finishing well ahead of Valentin Soca (7:34.10) and Sam Gilman (7:34.69). His dominant victory underscores his rising star status and signals that he is ready to take on the world’s best.

Blanks’ improvement has been nothing short of impressive. His ability to push the pace and close strong suggests he has even faster times ahead. With this performance, he adds his name to the elite ranks of American distance running, trailing only Grant Fisher on the all-time U.S. list.

As the track season heats up, all eyes will be on Blanks to see what he does next. Could he challenge Fisher’s American record in the near future? One thing is certain—Graham Blanks is a name to watch.

Over nine days, five men shattered seven world records, leaving me, like many others in the running world, asking one question: Is it the shoes? Or are we witnessing a new era of human performance, fueled by relentless training, cutting-edge technology, and perfect conditions?

It all started on February 8 at the Millrose Games. Grant Fisher kicked things off with an incredible 7:22.91 in the men's indoor 3000m, smashing the previous world record. His smooth stride and smart pacing made it look almost easy. I couldn't help but wonder if this was just the beginning. Sure enough, Yared Nuguse followed with a stunning 3:46.63 in the men's indoor mile. 

Five days later, Jakob Ingebrigtsen took things to another level in Liévin, France. He ran the mile in 3:45.14, breaking Nuguse’s fresh record. What really blew my mind was his 1500m split—3:29.63, another world record on the way to the mile finish. I’ve watched Jakob race for years, but this performance had me thinking: Are we witnessing the best miler of all time in his prime?

Then came Valentine's Day, and Grant Fisher was back at it. This time, he broke the men's indoor 5000m record in Boston, clocking an astonishing 12:44.09. Sub-60-second laps, one after another.

Just when I thought the wave of records might slow down, February 16 brought two more amazing performances. In Kobe, Japan, Toshikazu Yamanishi stormed to a 1:16:10 finish in the men's 20km race walk. Meanwhile, in Barcelona, Jacob Kiplimo made history in the half marathon, blazing to a 56:42 finish. I've followed Kiplimo's career closely, but this performance truly cemented his status as one of the greatest distance runners ever.

Naturally, everyone started talking about the shoes. Were they the secret behind these incredible performances? I looked into what each athlete was wearing. Grant Fisher and Yared Nuguse were both racing in the Nike Dragonfly spikes, known for their Pebax plate and ZoomX foam, delivering maximum energy return for middle and long distances. Jakob Ingebrigtsen was laced up in the Nike Air Zoom Victory, a lightweight spike built for efficiency. Yamanishi likely wore ASICS race walking shoes, designed for stability and flexibility. And Kiplimo? He was flying in the Nike Vaporfly Next% 3, the go-to choice for elite road runners chasing fast times.

So, is it the shoes? All have been approved by World Athletics.  It’s tempting to think so, but I believe the reality is more complex. Yes, today's super shoes, with their carbon plates, advanced foams, and featherlight builds, undoubtedly contribute. But I've been around this sport long enough to know that technology alone doesn’t break records. The foundation is still the same—grueling training, meticulous race preparation, and sheer determination.

Nine days. Five men. Seven world records. Whether it’s the shoes, the training, or a perfect storm of conditions, one thing is clear: the boundaries of human performance continue to be pushed. As someone who’s watched this sport evolve for decades, I can’t help but feel fortunate to witness history in the making.

A friend, Gary Rush summed it up so well, "I grew up in the early eighties of running, and my guess is with all of the GPS watches, gels, nutrition drinks, scientific training, analysis, Max VO2 tests, and likely more frequent training and recovery because of the Super Shoes, will give us insane results day by day...But, that 2:09 for a women's marathon must be even better historically than the first 4 minute mile,"

Bob Anderson Notebook

On May 6, 1954, Roger Bannister made history by running the first sub-4-minute mile, clocking 3:59.4 in Oxford, England. His groundbreaking achievement redefined what was possible in middle-distance running, inspiring generations of athletes to chase the elusive mark.

For decades, breaking the 4-minute barrier remained an extraordinary feat, but in recent years, more high school runners in the United States have joined this exclusive club. As of February 2025, 23 American high school boys have accomplished this milestone, with notable additions in 2024 and 2025.

The Latest High School Runners to Break Four Minutes

The most recent athletes to achieve the sub-4-minute mile in high school competition are:

• Drew Griffith – 3:57.72 (May 30, 2024, Festival of Miles, St. Louis, Missouri)
• JoJo Jourdon – 3:59.87 (February 3, 2024, New Balance Indoor Grand Prix, Boston, Massachusetts)
• Zachary Hillhouse – 3:59.62 (June 16, 2024, New Balance Nationals Outdoor, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
• Owen Powell – 3:57.74 (February 15, 2025, UW Husky Classic, Seattle, Washington)

These runners continue to prove that the sub-4-minute mile, once thought to be nearly impossible for young athletes, is an achievable milestone with the right combination of talent, training, and opportunity.

Jim Ryun and Alan Webb: The Legends of the High School Mile

Jim Ryun: A Historic Career

Jim Ryun was the first high school runner to break the 4-minute mile, running 3:59.0 in 1964 as a junior. He later set the national high school record of 3:55.3 in 1965, a time that stood for 36 years.

After his historic high school career, Ryun went on to break the world record in the mile twice—first in 1966, and then again in 1967 when he ran 3:51.1. At 19 years old, he remains the youngest world record holder in the mile to date. His record stood for nine years before being broken in 1975.

Ryun represented the United States in three Olympic Games (1964, 1968, and 1972), winning a silver medal in the men’s 1500m at the 1968 Olympics. His dominance in middle-distance running made him one of the greatest milers in history.

Alan Webb: The New Generation's Record-Breaker

In 2001, Alan Webb broke Ryun’s long-standing high school mile record by running 3:53.43 at the Prefontaine Classic. Webb’s performance redefined expectations for young milers and set a new benchmark for high school runners.

Webb continued his success post-high school and later set the American record in the mile, running 3:46.91 in 2007. This remains one of the fastest mile performances ever by an American.

Despite his success, Webb’s professional career was marked by injuries, including Achilles tendonitis and stress fractures, which affected his consistency. However, his high school and professional achievements cemented his place as one of the greatest milers in U.S. history.

The Complete List of High School Sub-4 Milers

Below is the full list of American high school runners who have broken the 4-minute mile, ranked by their fastest time achieved during high school competition:

1. Alan Webb (first photo) – 3:53.43 (May 27, 2001, Prefontaine Classic, Eugene, Oregon)
2. Jim Ryun (second photo) – 3:55.3 (June 27, 1965, AAU Championships, San Diego, California)
3. Colin Sahlman (third photo) – 3:56.24 (May 28, 2022, Prefontaine Classic, Eugene, Oregon)
4. Drew Griffith – 3:57.72 (May 30, 2024, Festival of Miles, St. Louis, Missouri)
5. Hobbs Kessler – 3:57.66 (February 7, 2021, American Track League Invitational, Fayetteville, Arkansas)
6. Drew Hunter – 3:57.81 (February 20, 2016, NYRR Millrose Games, New York City, New York)
7. Gary Martin – 3:57.89 (June 2, 2022, Festival of Miles, St. Louis, Missouri)
8. Connor Burns – 3:58.83 (June 2, 2022, Festival of Miles, St. Louis, Missouri)
9. Tim Danielson – 3:59.4 (June 11, 1966, San Diego Invitational, San Diego, California)
10. Reed Brown – 3:59.30 (June 1, 2017, Festival of Miles, St. Louis, Missouri)
11. Matthew Maton – 3:59.38 (May 8, 2015, Oregon Twilight Meet, Eugene, Oregon)
12. Grant Fisher – 3:59.38 (June 4, 2015, Festival of Miles, St. Louis, Missouri)
13. Michael Slagowski – 3:59.53 (April 29, 2016, Jesuit Twilight Invitational, Portland, Oregon)
14. Leo Daschbach – 3:59.54 (May 23, 2020, The Quarantine Clasico, El Dorado Hills, California)
15. Simeon Birnbaum – 3:57.53 (June 1, 2023, Festival of Miles, St. Louis, Missouri)
16. Rheinhardt Harrison – 3:59.33 (June 3, 2022, Golden South Series #2, Tarpon Springs, Florida)
17. Marty Liquori – 3:59.8 (June 23, 1967, AAU Championships, Bakersfield, California)
18. Lukas Verzbicas – 3:59.71 (June 11, 2011, Adidas Grand Prix, New York City, New York)
19. JoJo Jourdon – 3:59.87 (February 3, 2024, New Balance Indoor Grand Prix, Boston, Massachusetts)
20. Zachary Hillhouse – 3:59.62 (June 16, 2024, New Balance Nationals Outdoor, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
21. Owen Powell – 3:57.74 (February 15, 2025, UW Husky Classic, Seattle, Washington)
22. Tinoda Matsatsa – 3:58.70 (June 1, 2023, Festival of Miles, St. Louis, Missouri)
23. Jackson Heidesch – 3:59.08 (June 1, 2023, Festival of Miles, St. Louis, Missouri)

The Sub-4 Mile Remains an Iconic Benchmark

Roger Bannister’s 1954 breakthrough redefined human potential in distance running, and the high school sub-4-mile club continues to grow. As competition and knowledge improve, the question isn’t whether more young runners will join the club, but just how fast the next generation can go

American distance running star Grant Fisher delivered a historic performance at the Boston University David Hemery Valentine Invitational, setting a new world indoor record in the 5,000 meters with an astonishing time of 12:44.09. Fisher’s blistering run on February 14, 2025, broke the previous record of 12:49.60, set by Ethiopia’s Kenenisa Bekele in 2004.

The race saw Fisher dominate the competition, with French athlete Jimmy Gressier finishing second in 12:54.92, setting a new European indoor record and breaking his own French national record. Fisher’s remarkable pace and precision in the race demonstrated his growing dominance on the track and solidified his place among the sport’s greatest distance runners.

Back-to-Back World Records

This milestone comes just days after Fisher set the world indoor 3,000-meter record at the Millrose Games in New York on February 8, clocking 7:22.91. With two world records in less than a week, Fisher has established himself as one of the most formidable long-distance runners in history.

His recent performances build upon his success at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he claimed bronze medals in both the 5,000m and 10,000m events—becoming the first American to medal in both events at a single Olympics.

Fisher’s Reaction and Looking Ahead

After his record-breaking run, Fisher expressed his excitement and gratitude for the support from his team and the electric atmosphere in Boston. He acknowledged the significance of breaking Bekele’s long-standing record and credited the momentum gained from his recent 3,000m world record as a key factor in his historic performance.

As Fisher continues to push the limits of American and global distance running, all eyes will be on what he does next. Could this be just the beginning of an even greater legacy?

Stay tuned to My Best Runs for more coverage of the latest record-breaking performances and distance running news.

Grant Fisher came within a fraction of a second of Olympic gold in the 10,000 meters at the 2024 Paris Games, narrowly missing the top spot in one of the closest finishes in the event’s history.

It had been 60 years since an American had last won the race, and sitting in the stands that day was Billy Mills, the man who pulled off that legendary upset in Tokyo in 1964. Fisher’s performance was a powerful moment that linked generations of American distance running, proving that while technology and training have evolved, the spirit of competition remains unchanged.

Fisher has emerged as one of the greatest distance runners in American history. He holds the world indoor record in the 3000 meters, as well as American records in the two-mile, 5000 meters, and 10,000 meters.

His performances at the 2024 Olympics—bronze medals in both the 5000 and 10,000 meters—cemented his status as a world-class athlete, making him the first American to medal in both events at the same Olympic Games.

Early Life and High School Achievements

Fisher grew up in Grand Blanc, Michigan, where he attended Grand Blanc High School. In addition to running, he was an avid soccer player and a member of the Michigan Wolves, an elite-level club team. His high school running career was marked by significant achievements, including being named Gatorade Player of the Year for cross country for the 2013–2014 and 2014–2015 seasons. On June 4, 2015, he became the seventh American high school student to run a mile under four minutes, clocking 3:59.38 at the Nike Festival of Miles.

Collegiate Success at Stanford University

Fisher attended Stanford University, where he continued to excel in both cross country and track. He was an eleven-time All-American and won the 2017 NCAA Outdoor Track and Field 5000m championship, becoming the first American underclassman to do so in 28 years.

Transition to Professional Running

After graduating from Stanford, Fisher turned professional and joined the Bowerman Track Club, training under coach Jerry Schumacher. He continued to make significant strides in his professional career, setting personal bests and national records in various events.

Training Philosophy and Coaching

In late 2023, Fisher made a pivotal change by relocating to Park City, Utah, to train under his former high school coach, Mike Scannell. This move was aimed at optimizing his training environment, taking advantage of Park City's high altitude to enhance his physiological response to training. Fisher's training regimen focuses on threshold-type sessions, hill repeats, and long runs, with an emphasis on consistency and gradual progression.

Olympic Achievements

At the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, Fisher delivered outstanding performances:

10,000 meters: Fisher secured a bronze medal with a time of 26:43.46, narrowly missing the silver in a photo finish. This achievement made him the first American to medal in the men's 10,000 meters since Galen Rupp in 2012.

5000 meters: Fisher earned his second bronze medal, finishing in 13:15.13. He executed a strong final lap, moving from ninth to third place, showcasing his tactical acumen and finishing speed.

This race was one of the most thrilling finishes in Olympic history, with Fisher just 0.32 seconds behind Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegei, who set a new Olympic record of 26:43.14. The difference between gold and bronze was razor-thin, and it took a photo finish to determine the final placements.

Recent Achievements

On February 8, 2025, at the Millrose Games, Fisher set a new world indoor record in the 3000 meters, finishing in 7:22.91. This performance underscored his position as one of the premier distance runners globally.

Personal Bests

Grant Fisher's progression in the sport is highlighted by his impressive personal records across various distances:

1500 meters: 3:34.90 (June 9, 2024, New York, New York)

3000 meters: 7:22.91 (February 8, 2025, New York, New York) – World Indoor Record

Two-mile: 8:03.62 (February 11, 2024, New York, New York) – American Record

5000 meters: 12:46.96 (September 2, 2022, Brussels, Belgium) – North American Record

10,000 meters: 26:33.84 (March 6, 2022, San Juan Capistrano, California) – North American Record

These personal bests not only demonstrate Fisher's versatility across distances but also his continuous improvement and commitment to excellence.

 Grant Fisher's journey from a high school prodigy to a world-class athlete is a testament to his dedication, strategic training choices, and adaptability. His performance in the 2024 Olympic 10,000 meters was one of the greatest ever by an American, coming within a fraction of a second of gold.  

While modern advancements in track surfaces, shoes, and training have contributed to faster times, Fisher’s near-victory proved that at its core, elite distance running is still about tactical intelligence, mental strength, and raw determination—the same qualities that helped Mills secure his iconic gold in 1964.

When Billy Mills won the 10,000 meters at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, he shocked the world. A relative unknown at the international level, Mills surged past world record holder Ron Clarke in the final stretch to win gold in 28:24.4, setting an Olympic record. It remains one of the most famous upsets in Olympic history.

At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Billy Mills sat in the stands, watching intently as the men's 10,000-meter final unfolded. Sixty years after his historic victory in Tokyo, he witnessed another American, Grant Fisher, battling for the podium.

With two laps to go, Fisher was perfectly positioned, matching strides with the East African elites, his long, efficient stride reminiscent of Mills' own finishing kick in 1964. 

As the bell rang for the final lap, Fisher surged, momentarily moving into second. Mills, now 86, leaned forward, sensing history. But in the last 100 meters, Fisher was edged out, securing bronze. Mills smiled, knowing how close greatness had come again. Fisher clocked 26:43.46, just one third of a second behind the gold medal winner. 

Mills had ran his time on a cinder track, wearing "basic running shoes"—conditions that would be considered primitive compared to today’s high-tech track surfaces and carbon-plated racing shoes. Given all the advancements in running technology, how much faster could Billy Mills have run on a modern track with today’s footwear? And how much have these innovations contributed to the faster times we see today?

The Difference Between Cinder and Synthetic Tracks

One of the biggest changes in distance running over the last six decades has been the transition from cinder tracks to synthetic surfaces. Cinder tracks, composed of crushed brick, coal, or ash, provided uneven footing, absorbed energy from each step, and became soft and unpredictable when wet. Athletes often wore spikes with long, heavy pins to grip the loose surface.

By contrast, modern synthetic tracks, introduced in the late 1960s, offer a firm, springy surface that returns more energy to the runner with each stride. Research suggests that switching from a cinder track to a synthetic track can improve distance-running performance by about 1-2 percent.

For a 10,000-meter race, a 1-2 percent time reduction equates to about 17 to 34 seconds. This means that if Billy Mills had run his race on a modern track, his time could have been anywhere between 27:50 and 28:07 just from the track surface alone.

The Impact of Modern Running Shoes

The second major advancement in distance running has been the development of carbon-plated racing shoes with high-energy-return foams. The latest models, introduced after 2016, are designed to reduce energy loss with each step, making it easier for runners to maintain their pace over long distances. Studies suggest these shoes provide 2-4 percent energy savings, which translates to a 30-60 second improvement over 10,000 meters.

Adding this to the estimated track advantage, Mills’ performance could have been further improved, bringing his potential time down to around 26:50 to 27:30.

Comparing Billy Mills’ Performance to Modern Champions

The current Olympic record for the 10,000 meters was set by Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegei at the 2024 Paris Olympics with a time of 26:43.14. That’s 1 minute and 41 seconds faster than Mills' winning time.

However, when we factor in advancements in track surfaces and footwear, the estimated modern equivalent of Mills’ race suggests he could have run within a minute of today’s best, making him far more competitive by modern standards than his official time suggests.

Other Factors That Have Led to Faster 10,000m Times

While tracks and shoes play a significant role in faster performances, several other factors have contributed to the improvement in 10,000-meter times over the decades:

More specialized training. Today’s distance runners have more scientifically tailored training programs, including altitude training, precise recovery strategies, and improved strength training techniques.

Better pacing and race strategy. Modern races are often assisted by pacemakers who set a steady, fast pace, helping runners conserve energy and stay consistent. In contrast, Mills’ race was a classic tactical battle with surges and slow-downs.

Nutritional and recovery advances. Today’s runners have access to optimized hydration, fueling, and recovery methods that allow them to train harder and more efficiently.

Billy Mills’ Performance in Context

Billy Mills’ gold medal run remains one of the most inspiring performances in Olympic history, not just because of the time he ran, but because of the way he won. His dramatic sprint finish against heavily favored competitors on a slower, less predictable surface showcased his incredible talent, toughness, and racing instincts.

Had he raced under today’s conditions with modern advantages, Mills likely would have been among the best in the world by today’s standards. His story is a reminder that while technology has helped athletes run faster, the heart and determination behind great performances remain unchanged.

The next time you watch an Olympic 10,000-meter race, consider just how much conditions have changed since 1964—and how incredible it was for Billy Mills to win on that cinder track with the tools available at the time. His legacy stands as a testament to the pure competitive spirit of running.

The 117th Millrose Games, held on February 8, 2025, at New York’s Armory—a venue renowned as “The Fastest Track in the World”—delivered an unforgettable spectacle of middle-distance racing. Athletes shattered world records, national marks, and personal bests across events from the 800m to the 3000m, cementing this edition as one of the most electrifying in the meet’s storied history. Below, we break down the standout performances.

Records Fall in Mile, 3000m, and 800m

1. Wanamaker Mile: Yared Nuguse Rewrites History

Yared Nuguse (USA) stormed to a world indoor mile record of 3:46.63,  eclipsing Ethiopian Yomif Kejelcha’s 2019 mark (3:47.01) . In a race missing world champion Josh Kerr (withdrawn due to illness), Nuguse led wire-to-wire, splitting 3:31.74 for 1500m—a North American record—before surging past a fierce challenge from Hobbs Kessler (3:46.90, also under the previous WR) . Australian teen Cam Myers stunned with a world U20 record of 3:47.48, while France’s Azeddine Habz (3:47.56) set a national record.

2. Men’s 3000m: Grant Fisher Outduels Olympic Champion

Grant Fisher (USA) and Cole Hocker (USA)—the Olympic 10,000m bronze medalist and 1500m gold medalist, respectively—collided in a tactical masterclass. Fisher’s 7:22.91 broke Lamecha Girma’s world indoor record (7:23.81), with Hocker (7:23.14) also surpassing the old mark . Fisher’s final 200m in 27.50 sealed the win, while France’s Jimmy Gressier (7:30.18) and Australia’s Ky Robinson (7:30.38) set national records .  

3. Men’s 800m: Josh Hoey’s American Record Triumph

Josh Hoey (USA) dominated the 800m in 1:43.90, breaking Donovan Brazier’s American indoor record (1:44.21) and holding off Bryce Hoppel (1:44.19 PB) . Sixteen-year-old Cooper Lutkenhaus (1:46.86) smashed the high school record, previously held by Hoey himself .  

Women’s Events: Breakthroughs in Mile, 3000m, and 800m

1. Women’s Wanamaker Mile: Georgia Bell’s Tactical Mastery

Georgia Bell (GBR), the Olympic 1500m bronze medalist, edged a stacked field to win in 4:23.35,  outkicking Heather MacLean (USA, 4:23.41) and Nikki Hiltz (USA, 4:23.50) . Bell navigated a slow early pace (67.12 for the first quarter-mile) before unleashing a 61.97 final lap, crediting her composure in a “hard and messy” race .  

2. Women’s 3000m: Whittni Morgan’s Commanding Victory

Whittni Morgan (USA) surged late to win in 8:28.03, a personal best, ahead of Josette Andrews (USA, 8:29.77) and Sarah Healy (IRL, 8:30.79 NR) . Ethiopia’s Tsigie Gebreselama (8:33.13) and Australia’s Jessica Hull (8:30.91) added depth to a fiercely competitive race .  

3. Women’s 800m: Shafiqua Maloney’s Dominance  

Shafiqua Maloney (VIN) claimed victory in 1:59.07, fending off a late charge by Addy Wiley (USA, 2:00.14) . Olivia Baker (USA, 2:00.02 PB) and Kaela Edwards (USA, 2:00.14) rounded out the podium in a race showcasing tactical grit .  

With world records in the mile (Nuguse) and 3000m (Fisher), plus a slew of national and age-group marks, the 2025 Millrose Games underscored the rising global standard in middle-distance running. As athletes shift focus to outdoor seasons, these performances set the stage for a thrilling 2025 World Championships.  

The New Balance Indoor Grand Prix, a World Athletics Indoor Tour Gold meeting, is set to deliver thrilling track action in Boston on Sunday (Feb 2), with an elite lineup of global gold medalists ready to ignite the indoor season. The competition will serve as a crucial stepping stone towards the World Athletics Indoor Championships Nanjing 25 in March.

Sprints and Hurdles: Lyles and Alfred Lead the Charge

Olympic and world sprint sensation Noah Lyles returns to defend his 60m title, after setting a meeting record of 6.44 last year. Lyles, who claimed 100m gold and 200m bronze at the Olympics, kicked off his season with a 6.62 win in Gainesville last weekend. He will face Trayvon Bromell (USA), Zharnel Hughes (GBR), and 2022 world indoor champion Marcell Jacobs (ITA), who is making his North American indoor debut.

In the women’s 300m, Olympic 100m champion Julien Alfred steps up in distance for her New Balance Indoor Grand Prix debut. After winning world indoor 60m gold in Glasgow, Alfred took 100m gold and 200m silver at the Olympics and ended last season with a Diamond League Final victory. She faces a competitive field including 2019 world 200m champion Dina Asher-Smith (GBR) and USA’s Lynna Irby-Jackson.

The men’s 300m features Olympic 400m hurdles gold medalist Rai Benjamin. A past winner in Boston, Benjamin is set to battle 4x400m relay star Vernon Norwood and Matthew Boling.

The 60m hurdles events promise fireworks, with world record-holder Devynne Charlton (7.65) and Olympic champion Masai Russell renewing their rivalry. Russell edged Charlton in their recent clash in Lubbock, but the Bahamian sprinter leads their head-to-head series 8-2. Joining them are Olympic finalists Ackera Nugent, Grace Stark, and 2018 world indoor silver medallist Christina Clemons.

For the men, world record-holder Grant Holloway (7.27) looks to extend his 10-year unbeaten streak in the 60m hurdles. The Olympic and world champion headlines the field alongside Olympic finalist Freddie Crittenden and 2022 world silver medallist Trey Cunningham.

Middle and Long Distance Races: Olympic Medalists Face Off

The women’s 3000m sees Olympic 1500m silver medalist Jessica Hull (AUS) take on Great Britain’s Olympic bronze medalist Georgia Bell. Hull, the defending champion, set an Oceanian indoor record of 8:24.93 in this event last year. They are joined by USA’s Parker Valby, Emily Mackay, Elise Cranny, Ethiopia’s Melknat Wudu, Italy’s Sintayehu Vissa, and Olympic steeplechase medalist Emma Coburn.

In the men’s 1500m, USA’s Grant Fisher (Olympic 5000m and 10,000m bronze medalist) takes on 2022 world champion Jake Wightman (GBR), Oliver Hoare (AUS), and Josh Hoey, who recently broke the North American 1000m record.

Bryce Hoppel, the reigning world indoor 800m champion, leads the men’s 800m field, while Hobbs Kessler, Cameron Myers, Neil Gourley, and Andrew Coscoran battle in the 3000m.

Other Key Events

Women’s 60m: Mikiah Brisco (USA) and Zoe Hobbs (NZL) lead the field.

Men’s 400m: 2022 world indoor champion Jereem Richards (TTO) races USA’s Quincy Wilson.

Women’s 500m: Dutch 4x400m Olympic champion Lisanne de Witte takes on USA’s Olympic 800m medallist Raevyn Rogers.

Women’s Mile: Heather MacLean (2023 winner) faces Olympic finalist Susan Ejore, Maia Ramsden, and Sage Hurta-Klecker.

With an electrifying lineup of Olympic and world champions, the New Balance Indoor Grand Prix promises high-stakes racing and a preview of the talent heading to Nanjing 25.

Grant Fisher, one of America's top distance runners, continues to showcase his exceptional fitness and race-readiness. In a recent Track workout Grant closed a demanding 7-kilometer workout with a stunning sub four-minute mile, demonstrating his world-class endurance and speed. The session, held in Chandler, Arizona, was designed to simulate race conditions, ensuring that Fisher is primed for his upcoming season opener.

A Closer Look at the Workout

The workout was structured to test Fisher’s ability to maintain a high level of performance deep into a training session. His coach, Mike Scannell, closely monitored his effort, emphasizing the of controlled fatigue management.

The workout breakdown:

First Segment: A 2,000-meter interval, completed in 5:08.

Second Segment: Four 800-meter repeats, split in 2:06, 2:09, 2:08, and 2:08.

Final Segment: A 1,600-meter effort, where Fisher clocked an astonishing sub 4:00 mile to finish the session.

Between intervals, Fisher took controlled recovery breaks, with coach Scannell monitoring his blood lactate levels to ensure he remained within an optimal training range. Professional runner Sam Gilman assisted in pacing certain portions of the session, helping maintain consistency and push Fisher to his best effort.

A Career Defined by Breaking Barriers

Fisher’s ability to produce elite performances at the highest level is no surprise. Born on April 22, 1997, in Calgary, Alberta, and raised in Grand Blanc, Michigan, Fisher made history as a high schooler when he became the seventh U.S. prep athlete to break the four-minute mile barrier. He achieved this milestone in 2015 at the Festival of Miles in St. Louis, Missouri, clocking a 3:59.38.

After high school, Fisher attended Stanford University, where he further cemented his reputation as a distance-running star. Under coach Chris Miltenberg, he won the 2017 NCAA 5,000m title and earned 12 All-American honors. Fisher’s consistency and tactical intelligence on the track made him one of the most accomplished distance runners in Stanford history.

Turning professional in 2019, Fisher joined the Bowerman Track Club (BTC), training under coach Jerry Schumacher. The move propelled his career to new heights, as he set multiple American records, including:

3,000m: 7:25.47 (2023)

Two-mile: 8:03.62 (2023)

5,000m: 12:46.96 (2022)

10,000m: 26:33.84 (2022)

His performances placed him among the best distance runners in the world. At the Tokyo 2020 Olympics (held in 2021), he finished fifth in the 10,000m and ninth in the 5,000m, proving he could compete at the sport’s highest level.

Paris 2024 and Beyond

Fisher’s steady progression led to historic achievements at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he became the first American to medal in both the 5,000m and 10,000m in the same Games, earning two bronze medals. This feat solidified his status as one of America’s greatest-ever distance runners.

As he prepares for the 2025 season, Fisher is expected to begin his campaign with a 1,500-meter race at the New Balance Indoor Grand Prix in Boston before focusing on the 3,000m and 5,000m during the indoor season. His long-term goal remains clear: to position himself as a gold medal contender at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Fisher’s ability to run a sub four-minute mile at the end of an intense workout speaks volumes about his fitness level and training discipline. As he continues to sharpen his form, fans can expect even greater performances from him in the coming months.

Devynne Charlton will return to the scene of her first world 60m hurdles record when she races at the Millrose Games – a World Athletics Indoor Tour Gold meeting – in New York on 8 February.

The Bahamian hurdles star clocked 7.67 to win at the Armory last year, taking 0.01 off Susanna Kallur’s 16-year-old record. 

Tia Jones then equaled that mark just five days later to win the US indoor title in Albuquerque, before Charlton improved the world record by another 0.02 with her 7.65 performance to win the world indoor title in Glasgow.

In a season that gives Charlton the chance to defend her world indoor title in Nanjing in March, she will go head-to-head with Jones as well as the previously announced Olympic 100m hurdles champion Masai Russell at the Millrose Games.

They will be joined by Jamaican 100m hurdles champion Ackera Nugent as well as US Olympic finalists Grace Stark and Alaysha Johnson.

“I can’t wait to be back at the Millrose Games this year,” said Charlton. “Almost a year ago, I broke the world record there for the first time and I’m looking forward to having another great showing and defending my title.”

Other athletes already announced for the meeting include Olympic silver medalists Katie Moon and Daniel Roberts, plus Olympic 1500m champion Cole Hocker and double Olympic bronze medalist Grant Fisher, who will go head-to-head in the 3000m.

America’s two best distance runners are set to square off at America’s most prestigious indoor track meet.

On February 8, Grant Fisher will race Cole Hocker over 3,000 meters at the 2025 Millrose Games at the Armory. Fisher is the reigning US champion in the 5,000 and 10,000 meters and a double Olympic medalist. Hocker is the US and Olympic champion in the 1500 meters. Let the hype commence.

Over the last three years, the men’s 3,000 at Millrose has produced some of the best racing of the indoor season. In 2022, Geordie Beamish used a killer kick to upset Hocker and Cooper Teare in the home straight. In 2023, miler Josh Kerr surprisingly stepped up and won in a big pb of 7:33.47, demonstrating the endurance chops that would presage his World Championship 1500 victory six months later. Last year, the event was lengthened to two miles, and Kerr streaked to a world indoor record of 8:00.67 after Fisher tried and failed to break him during the second mile.

The top four finishers at 2024 Millrose would combine to earn seven global medals in 2024. Kerr claimed World Indoor gold in the 3,000 and Olympic silver in the 1500. Fisher, the runner-up in an American record of 8:03.62, took Olympic bronze in the 5,000 and 10,000. Hocker, 3rd in 8:05.70, claimed World Indoor silver and Olympic gold in the 1500. And fourth-placer Beamish (8:05.73) would defeat Hocker to win the World Indoor 1500 title three weeks later in Glasgow.

“You look back at that race, that was a pretty loaded field,” Fisher said on this week’s LetsRun.com Track Talk podcast where he announced he would be running Millrose. “Maybe not everyone said that at the time. They might’ve said Josh was the class of the field. But now post-Olympics, you see some people did really, really well throughout that season, and it all kind of started at Milrose at that two-mile. So it’ll be a fun spot to get things rolling again.”

More athletes will be announced as part of the field in the coming weeks, but Fisher versus Hocker should be enough to get any American distance running fan excited. This sort of matchup does not happen often. They were both Foot Locker Cross Country champions as high schoolers. They were both NCAA champions as collegians. They are both national champions as professionals. More than that, Hocker is the fastest American ever in the 1500 meters; Fisher holds the same title in the 3,000, 5,000, and 10,000. They are two of America’s brightest distance talents, now or ever, and they are firmly in their primes.

Fisher, 27, and Hocker, 23, did race three times this year, with Fisher prevailing in all three matchups: the 2-mile at Millrose, the 5,000 at the LA Grand Prix on May 17, and the Olympic Trials 5,000 final on June 30. But they’ve never raced each other as Olympic medalists. And that hits different.

Since 1968, four American men have medalled in the Olympic 1500 — Leo Manzano, Matthew Centrowitz, Hocker, and Yared Nuguse. During that same span, only two Americans have medalled in the Olympic 5,000 — Paul Chelimo and Fisher. Only once has one of the 1500 medalists raced one of the 5000 medalists. That came in May 2018, when Chelimo defeated Centrowitz in a 1500 at the Payton Jordan Invitational.

That’s it. Just one matchup between an American 1500 medalist and an American 5,000 medalist in more than half a century. On February 8 at Millrose, we’ll get to see the second, and it will come at the crossover distance of 3,000 meters. In their three battles in 2024, Fisher’s strength prevailed over Hocker’s kick, though Fisher acknowledged he had home-event advantage.

“I didn’t know I was 3-0 against Cole, but to be fair, I’ve never met him at his distance,” Fisher said. “So that gives me a little bit of an advantage. That would be like saying I’m undefeated against him at 10k or something — I don’t think that’s a fair comparison. So yeah, maybe I’ll drop down, race him in a 1500, have it be more of a balanced record to show. But Cole ran incredibly well in the 2-mile last year at Milrose.”

In 2025, however, Hocker will be looking to erase that advantage; he has spoken of wanting to be the best in the world at not just the 1500 meters, but the 5,000 as well. An early showdown against the Olympic bronze medalist is a great way to test the progess he is making.

So who will win on February 8? Hocker’s speed? Fisher’s strength? Or perhaps someone else entirely? We’ll find out in less than two months.

“It will be a really fun opportunity,” Fisher said. “Last year it was fast. I’m sure it’ll be fast this year. So it’s gonna be fun.”

Norwegian superstar Jakob Ingebrigtsen raced  to a maiden Olympic 5,000m gold medal at Paris 2024 on Saturday (10 August).

The double world champion over the distance made up for his hiccup in the 1,500m in the French capital where he finished in fourth place after a dramatic sprint for the line.

Ingebrigsten was in cruise control over the final stretch of the 5,000m, beating nearest rival Ronald Kwemoi of Kenya by nearly two seconds with a time of 13 minutes, 13.66 seconds (13:13.66).

Kwemoi crossed the line second in 13:15.04 with Grant Fisher of the U.S. bagging bronze in 13:15.13.

Ingebrigtsen conceded his Olympic 1,500m earlier in the track and field meeting and lined up in the 5,000m hoping for redemption.

The 23-year-old took a measured approach in the final as he sat back around fifth place at the halfway point.

With 600m to go Ethiopian ace Hagos Gebrhiwet made his move which ultimately brought Ingebrigtsen into the battle.

Gebrhiwet was leading at the bell with Ingebrigtsen going into the final lap in second place and quickly gaining on the Ethiopian.

The Norwegian took the lead for the first time with half a lap to go and turned on the afterburners to race home to add the Olympic gold to his two world titles in the event.

 A little over 14 hours after being run out of the medals in the 1,500 metres final, Norway’s Jakob Ingebrigtsen was back on the Olympic track on Wednesday in the heats of the 5,000m, where he looked strong as the fastest qualifier.

The defending champion over 1,500m finished fourth in a race won by long-shot American Cole Hocker and, understandably, did the minimum necessary on Wednesday to advance to Saturday’s final.

After going out hard from the start on Tuesday night, he sat comfortably at the back of a 20-man field before easing to the front two laps out and leading it home in 13 minutes 51.59.

The Norwegian bounced back from defeat in the last two world championship 1,500m finals to win the 5,000 and would obviously love to make that a hat-trick.

Ingebrigtsen has been outspoken in his criticism of Briton Josh Kerr, who took silver in the 1,500, but was magnanimous in defeat, writing on his Instagram page: "Well, I guess he (Kerr) did show up after all. Cole Hocker, (bronze medallist) Yared Nuguse and Josh Kerr outsmarted me. They were 'the best guys' when it really mattered. And I want to congratulate them all on a great performance."

There was great support from the crowd as home favourites Hugo Hay and Jimmy Gressier made the early running in a slow and eventually chaotic first heat.

The pedestrian pace meant that the entire 21-man field was together heading into the final lap, with the inevitable clashes, leading to four men falling in the final straight mayhem.

Narve Gilje Nordas, who finished seventh, in the 1,500m final, kept clear of it by hitting the front and led it home in a "fast-walk" 14:08.16, ensuring there will be two Norwegians in the final.

He even had time to fist-bump second-placed finisher Hagos Gebrhiwet of Ethiopia, who became the second-fastest man ever over the distance earlier this year, before they crossed the line.

Grant Fisher, still on a high from his bronze in the 10,000, will look to extend the United States' impressive middle and long-distance showing in Paris after also progressing.

Canada’s Tokyo silver medallist Mohammed Ahmed did not make it after falling earlier in the first heat, but the four who went down at the end of it - Dominic Lokinyomo Lobalu, George Mills, Mike Foppen and Thierry Ndikumwenayo - were all added to the final lineup after appeals.

The 27-year-old Ugandan, who took silver in Tokyo and gold over 5,000m, produced a devastating last 600m to come home in 26:43.14 minutes, knocking 18 seconds off Kenenisa Bekele’s 2008 Olympic record

World record holder Joshua Cheptegei claimed the Olympic 10,000m title he so desperately wanted on Friday when he found a late surge to win a fantastic race and take the Games' first track gold.

The 27-year-old Ugandan, who took silver in Tokyo and gold over 5,000m, produced a devastating last 600m to come home in 26:43.14 minutes, knocking 18 seconds off Kenenisa Bekele’s 2008 Olympic record.

Berihu Aregawi, part of a three-pronged Ethiopian front-running group almost from the start, finished strongly for silver in 26:43.44 and Grant Fisher took a superb bronze in 26:43.46 — only the United States' fourth medal over the distance since the event was added to the Games in 1912.

Cheptegei, world champion in 2019, 2022 and 2023, was surprisingly beaten to gold by Ethiopian Selemon Barega in Tokyo and was desperate for revenge. "My collection for this run is really complete. I'm so excited," he told reporters.

"I said, 'one day I want to be Olympic champion'. It is the most special day. I can’t describe the feeling. I’ve wanted this for a long time. When I took silver in Tokyo I was so disappointed. I just wanted to win the 10,000m."

Grant Fisher joined Lewis Tewanima (1912), Billy Mills (1964) and Galen Rupp (2012) as the only American men to medal in the 10,000m at the Olympics, winning bronze in a close final on Friday night at the Stade de France.

Fisher was narrowly pipped to the line by Ethiopa’s Berihu Aregawi, who picked up the silver in a photo-finish.

There were also strong efforts from Americans Nico Young (26:58.11) and William Kincaid (27:29.40), who finished 12th and 16th. But it was Fisher who made US history. In a cool night in Paris, he ran his best time of the season, clocking in at 26 minutes, 43.46 seconds. Aregawi ran a 26:43.44.

“I’ve been close to the medals before,” Fisher said. “But I haven’t gotten one until today.”

Fisher’s bronze marked the first US medal in track and field at the Paris Games.

“So many things have to go right to get on the podium,” said Fisher, who finished fifth in the 10,000m in Tokyo. “I’m happy that they did.”

After stumbling with about nine laps to go, Fisher surged back to reach the lead group heading into the final laps. Whether or not the American could hold on for a medal was a question, but who would take home the gold was never in doubt.

Joshua Cheptegei of Uganda took the lead with a little more than a lap left in a masterpiece of a 10,000m final to win in an Olympic-record 26:43.14 seconds in front of a roaring crowd on an electric opening night for track at the Paris Games.The world record-holder raced in the middle of a strung-out pack for most of the 25 laps on the calm. Then he took off around the curve and held the lead over the final 500 meters against a crowd of Ethiopians who set a blistering pace all night.This was Cheptegei’s season opener on the track this season – his only race at this distance was a 26:53 run in a cross-country road race earlier this season.

He looked in peak form, turning a race being controlled by Aregawi and his Ethiopian teammates, who strung out the pack early and took turns in the lead, into a celebration for Uganda, which captured its first gold in the 112-year history of this race at the Olympics.The win earned Cheptegei $50,000 – a new prize for Olympic track this year – and a chance to ring the bell at the end of the stadium that is reserved only for newly crowned Olympic champions.

Cheptegei adds this to the silver medal he won in Tokyo and the world titles he took in 2019, 2022 and 2023.“Now, my collection is complete,” he said. “I was the world champion. Now, I win the Olympic title. I’m so excited.”

In what could be argued as the most gruelling track race of the Olympic Games, the 10,000m, it was an epic battle in the men’s final, as the reigning Olympic champion, reigning world champion and current world record holder were all in the lineup at the Stade de France to battle for the coveted Olympic gold medal.

Taking the fastest 10,000m race in the history of the Olympic Games was Uganda’s world record holder, Joshua Cheptegei, in a time of 26:43.14.

The pool was incredibly fast, with the first 13 finishers all coming in under the previous Olympic record, that before Friday night had held true since 2008.

Ethiopia’s Berihu Aregawi took the silver medal just 0.3 seconds behind Cheptegei, with USA’s Grant Fisher taking the bronze medal, 0.02 behind silver.

Reigning Olympic champion Selemon Baregaof Ethiopia took seventh place in 26:44.48.

More: Joshua Cheptegei of Uganda took the lead with a little more than a lap left in a masterpiece of a 10,000-meter race to finish in an Olympic-record 26 minutes, 43.14 seconds in front of a roaring crowd on an electric opening night at the track. 

The world-record holder raced in the middle of a strung-out pack for most of the 25 laps on the calm, cool evening at the Stade de France. 

Then he took off, and held the lead over the final 500 meters against a crowd of Ethiopians who set a blistering pace all night. 

Ethiopian Berihu Aregawi beat American Grant Fisher in a sprint to the line for silver. 

Fisher’s bronze medal marked the first for the U.S. in the longest race at the Olympic track since Galen Rupp took silver in 2012.

Daniel Mateiko, Nicholas Kimeli, and Bernard Kibet will have the pressure to deliver Kenya's gold medal since Naftali Temu's exploits at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics.

The trio of Daniel Mateiko, Nicholas Kimeli and Bernard Kibet are tasked with a daunting task to reclaim Kenya’s 10,000m title once they toe the line at the Stade de France on Friday, August 2.

The men’s race starts at 10:20 p.m. East African Time with the trio taking on one of the strongest fields in history with the main aim to reclaim Naftali Temu’s title won at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics.

Kenyans have had a rough time of winning the gold medal following the emergence of Ethiopians and Ugandans who have dominated the race. Kenenisa Bekele, Mo Farah, Joshua Cheptegei have dominated the global stage with Bekele and Farah winning two titles each.

Selemon Barega won the title at the delayed 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games with Cheptegei and Jacob Kiplimo taking second and third place respectively.

Mateiko made headlines, winning the Prefontaine Classic to secure his slot to the Olympic Games with Kimeli and Kibet finishing second and third respectively. The trio has the much-needed confidence to impress following their training sessions that have been extensive so far.

Mateiko and Kimeli train with Eliud Kipchoge and they certainly draw inspiration from the two-time Olympic champion who will also be chasing his third Olympic title.

However, they will not have an easy task in title reclamation as they go up against very strong opponents. Defending champion Barega will be out to defend his Olympic gold with Cheptegei also in the mix.

Being the world record holder and a three-time world champion, Cheptegei will going for the only title missing in his decorated CV. The Ethiopians have fielded their best, with world leader Yomif Kejelcha and Berihu Aregawi also in the mix. Paris marks the first Olympics for Kejelcha who will have the pressure on him after the world lead.

Cheptegei has raced sparingly, making it difficult to gauge his shape. He will be competing for the first time since end of May when he finished ninth in the 5000m at the Diamond League Meeting in Oslo.

The American duo Grant Fisher and Nico Young have also been entered and they will also be chasing history for the US. Young will b debuting at the Olympics and the race will just be his third 10,000m race on a track.

On his part, Fisher has great experience racing on the global stage and after finishing fifth at the delayed 2020 Tokyo Olympics, he will be out to improve on that.

Little-known Edwin Kurgat is inspired by his London Diamond League performance to win the 5,000m Olympics title that the country last claimed in 1988 Seoul Games.

Edwin Kurgat is now ready to stun the masses at the Paris Olympic Games and reclaim Kenya’s gold medal in the men’s 5000m following his London Diamond League Meeting third-place finish.

Kurgat, competing in the men’s 3000m, crossed the finish line third in 7:28.53 as Dominic Lobalu set a Swiss record, clocking a personal best time of 7:27.68 to win the race. Grant Fisher finished second in the hotly-contested race, clocking 7:27.99.

Kurgat admitted that the race is very vital as he heads to the Olympic Games. He disclosed that throughout the race, his body was feeling good and going under 7:30 is a sign of fireworks at the Olympic Games.

The last time Kenya won a gold medal at the Olympic Games in the men’s 5000m was at the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games courtesy of the late John Ngugi.

“Throughout the race I was feeling good, really composed. This was the race where I wanted to run good to get ready for the Olympics so I'm glad with how I ran,” Kurgat said.

“I'm feeling confident going in to Paris, running under 7:30 is a big achievement for me and now I'm just ready for what's to come. The crowd was amazing, they helped push me to get it finished,” he added.

The 28-year-old has been impressive this season, starting from his indoor campaign to the outdoor races. He opened his season with the 3000m and 5000m indoor races at the New Balance Indoor Grand Prix and Boston University John Thomas Terrier Classic respectively finishing second and first.

Kurgat finished fourth in the men’s 10,000m at the Prefontaine Classic, missing out on the Olympic team shortly but bounced back in the 5000m to finish third and automatically qualify for the event.

It was a nightmare outing for all six Kenyan-born American runners at the US Olympics trials as none of them managed to secure a ticket to the Paris 2024 Games.

Kenyan-born runners who were seeking to represent the United States of America at the Paris 2024 Olympics all ended up empty-handed at the just-concluded trials.

At the weeklong trials that started on June 21 and ended on June 30, six Kenyan-born runners had signed up in a bid to represent their adopted country in various disciplines at the Paris Olympics.

However, none of them could finish among the first three to secure the coveted tickets.

Sam Chelanga and Paul Chelimo, Olympics bronze medallist in 5,000m, were the first to miss out on the first day of the trials when they finished seventh and 10th respectively in the men’s 10,000m race.

Grant Fisher, fifth at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, clinched first place in the race, followed by Woody Kincaid with Nico Young claiming the final ticket.

The story was the same for three Kenyan-born athletes in the men’s 3,000m steeplechase. Anthony Rotich, who had already hit the Olympic qualifying standard, could only manage eigth place, followed by Bernard Keter in ninth, while Hillary Bor was 13th in the final.

Kenneth Rooks, Mathew Wilkinson and James Corrigan are the athletes who will be competing with Kenyan trio of Simon Koech, Amos Serem, and Abraham Kibiwott in the 3,000m steeplechase at the Olympics.

In the men’s 800m, Jonah Koech was the last man standing among the Kenyan-born contingent at the US trials heading into the final day on Sunday but he also met his waterloo.

Koech finished fifth in the final which was won by Bryce Hoppel, followed by Hobbs Kesler and Brandon Miller in second and third positions respectively.

It has been a horrible year for the Kenyan-born runners as only Leonard Korir managed to secure an Olympics slot after earning a late lifeline when qualification rules for the marathon were altered last month.

Korir had finished third at the marathon trials in February but had to wait for months to know his fate.

It was double disappointment for Chelimo who had also missed out on a place on the marathon team after dropping out of the race at the trials while Betsy Saina, Caroline Rotich and Elkanah Kibet also failed in their quest in February.

A number of them such as Saina, Koech and Chelimo has pitched camp in Kenya to train for the Olympics trials but it was still not enough.

Discover Team USA's men's track and field roster for Paris 2024, featuring stars like Noah Lyles and Rai Benjamin aiming for gold.

The Olympics are once again upon us, and Team USA is ready to make a mark at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

With a mix of returning medalists and fresh faces, the American men's track and field roster boasts exceptional talent across a variety of events.

Pulse Sports looks at the athletes representing the United States in each event, highlighting their recent triumphs and expectations for the upcoming games.

100m

The face of USA track and field Noah Lyles confirmed his top-tier status with a scorching 9.83 seconds in the men’s 100-meter final at the trials.

Alongside him, Kenny Bednarek and Fred Kerley, who previously clinched a silver medal in Tokyo, are all set to bring their explosive speed to the Paris tracks.

This trio’s combination of experience and raw power forms a formidable front for the U.S. in one of the Olympics' most iconic events.

110m hurdles

A familiar name in the hurdles Grant Holloway is eyeing gold after a near miss in Tokyo, where he took home silver.

At the trials, he showcased his readiness by clocking in at 12.86 seconds, a time that would have won him gold in the previous Olympics.

Joining him are Freddie Crittenden and Daniel Roberts, the former making his Olympic debut, and the latter bringing experience from Tokyo, setting up a strong team for this high-stakes event.

200m

Noah Lyles demonstrated his versatility and sheer pace by also clinching the 200-meter at the trials with an impressive 19.53 seconds, narrowly edging out Kenny Bednarek.

With Erriyon Knighton rounding out the team, this event is likely to be a highlight for the U.S., with all three runners previously finishing in the top four at Tokyo 2021 behind Canada’s Andre De Grasse.

400m

Michael Norman returns with hopes of improving on his fifth-place finish in Tokyo.

He is joined by Quincy Hall, whose commanding win at the trials with a time of 44.17 seconds positions him as a strong medal contender.

Chris Bailey rounds out the team bringing fresh energy to the mix.

400m hurdles

Rai Benjamin, who captured silver in Tokyo, solidified his Paris bid with an impressive sub-47-second finish at the trials.

CJ Allen and Trevor Bassitt, both first-time Olympians, will join Benjamin as they aim to convert his previous silver into gold.

800m

Bryce Hoppel returns to the Olympics with an improved trial time that bested his Tokyo performance.

Hobbs Kessler, having already qualified for the 1500m, adds the 800m to his Paris challenges, showcasing his endurance and tactical racing prowess.

Brandon Miller completes the team, ready to make his Olympic debut.

1500m

Cole Hocker, Yared Nuguse, and Hobbs Kessler make up the U.S. team for the 1500-meter race.

All three athletes met the Olympic standard at the trials, demonstrating their readiness and resilience.

This event will test their strategic racing abilities and endurance on the Olympic stage.

5000m

Grant Fisher and Abdihamid Nur are set to represent the U.S. in this challenging race.

Fisher, doubling down after his 10,000m trial win, and Nur, making his Olympic debut, will need to bring their best to contend with the global competition.

10,000m

Grant Fisher leads the U.S. team again in the 10,000m, followed closely by Woody Kincaid and newcomer Nico Young.

This trio having demonstrated strong performances at the trials are prepared to face the long-distance challenge in Paris.

Decathlon

Heath Baldwin, Zach Ziemek, and Harrison Williams represent the U.S. in the decathlon an exhaustive series of ten track and field events that tests versatility and stamina.

Baldwin led the trials, while Ziemek brings experience from his sixth-place finish in Tokyo.

Discus

Andrew Evans and Joseph Brown look to improve the U.S.'s standings in the discus throw, both having shown strong potential at the trials with throws exceeding 65 meters. They aim to transform their trial success into Olympic medals.

Hammer

Daniel Haugh and Rudy Winkler, returning Olympians, have shown significant improvements since Tokyo.

Haugh, in particular, won the hammer throw final at the trials, indicating that he is a strong contender for a medal in Paris.

High Jump

Shelby McEwen and JuVaughn Harrison are set to return to the Olympics, aiming to surpass their previous performances.

Harrison, who finished seventh in Tokyo, looks to leverage his experience for a better outcome in Paris.

Javelin

Curtis Thompson leads the team in the javelin throw, hoping to build on his past Olympic experience.

He is joined potentially by Capers Williamson and Donavon Banks whose participation will depend on the final world rankings.

Marathon

Leonard Korir, Conner Mantz, and Clayton Young have secured their places on the marathon team, each bringing unique strengths and strategies to one of the Olympics' most grueling challenges.

Pole Vault

Chris Nilsen and Sam Kendricks, with past Olympic experiences of highs and lows, aim to dominate the pole vault.

Jacob Wooten joins them, making his first appearance on the Olympic stage.

Shot Put

Ryan Crouser, Joe Kovacs, and Payton Otterdahl, all exceeding the 22-meter mark at the trials, form a powerful shot put trio.

Their aim is clear: to return with gold and silver medals.

3000m Steeplechase

Kenneth Rooks and Matthew Wilkinson will tackle the steeplechase, a race combining speed, stamina, and technique.

Both first-timers at the Olympics, they aim to make a significant impact in Paris.

Triple Jump

Donald Scott returns to the triple jump, along with newcomer Salif Mane, who impressed with a 17.52-meter jump at the trials.

Their sights are set on improving their standings and aiming for the podium in Paris.

Here’s who will be representing the U.S. in Paris—so far.

The Team USA track and field team will compete at this summer’s Olympic Games in Paris from August 1 to August 11. The first members were named on February 3 at the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials in Orlando, Florida. The rest of the squad will be determined at the Olympic Track and Field Team Trials in Eugene, Oregon, which are taking place now until June 30.

Here’s who has made Team USA—so far. 

100 meters

Women’s team

Sha’Carri Richardson

24 | First place in 10.71 | First Olympics

Melissa Jefferson

23 | Second in 10.80 | First Olympics

Twanisha “TeeTee” Terry

25 | Third in 10.89 | First Olympics

Multi events

Men’s decathlon 

Heath Baldwin

23 | First place with 8625 points | First Olympics

Zach Ziemek

31 | Second with 8516 points | Sixth at 2020 Olympics, seventh at 2016 Olympics

Harrison Williams

28 | Third with 8384 points | First Olympics

Shot put

Men’s team

Ryan Crouser

31 | First place in 22.84 meters | Olympic gold medalist in 2016 and 2020

Joe Kovacs

34 | Second in 22.43 meters | Olympic silver medalist in 2016 and 2020

Payton Otterdahl

28 | Third in 22.26 meters | 10th at 2020 Olympics

10,000 meters

Men’s Team

Grant Fisher

27 | First in 27:49.47 | 5th in 10,000 meters at 2020 Olympics

Woody Kincaid

31 | Second in 27:50.74 | 15th in 10,000 meters at 2020 Olympics

Nico Young

21 | Third in 27:52.40 | First Olympics

Marathon

Women’s Team

Fiona O’Keeffe

25 | First in 2:22:10 | First Olympics

Emily Sisson

32 | Second in 2:22:42 | 10th in 10,000 meters at 2020 Olympics

Dakotah Lindwurm

28 | Third in 2:25:31 | First Olympics

Men’s Team

Conner Mantz

27 | First in 2:09:05 | First Olympics 

Clayton Young

30 | Second in 2:09:06 | First Olympics 

Leonard Korir

37 | Third in 2:09:57 | 14th in 10,000 meters at 2016 Olympics

Tsigie Gebreselama set a US all-comers' record to win the women’s 10,000m, while Grant Fisher topped a deep men’s race to triumph at The TEN, a World Athletics Continental Tour Silver event, in San Juan Capistrano, California, on Saturday (16).

Hitting the Olympic standards for Paris – 27:00.00 for men and 30:40.00 for women – was the aim for many athletes in San Juan Capistrano. A total of eight athletes managed it in the men’s race and four achieved it in the women’s.

Leading the way in that women’s race was Ethiopia’s world cross country silver medallist Gebreselama, who improved her PB to 29:48.34 to move to ninth on the world all-time list.

The 23-year-old won the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon in a PB of 1:05:14 three weeks ago and returned to the track to dip under 30 minutes for 10,000m for the first time, also becoming the first woman to break that time barrier on US soil.

Gebreselama, the fourth-place finisher in the World Road Running Championships half marathon in October, had been the only athlete to go with USA’s Alicia Monson from the start but when Monson struggled to maintain the pace, Gebreselama took over at the front and Monson later dropped out.

Chasing the Olympic standard in a group further back, USA’s Weini Kelati led the way and clocked a PB of 30:33.82 to finish second. She was followed by Lauren Ryan, who ran 30:35.66 to improve Benita Willis’s 20-year-old Australian record, and Britain’s Megan Keith, who ran 30:36.84 on her 10,000m debut.

Rachel Smith finished fifth in 31:04.02 and Karissa Schweizer sixth in 31:04.80.

In the men’s race, North American record-holder Fisher led one of the deepest 10,000m races in history as he sprinted into the lead in the closing stages to win in 26:52.04. 

His 21-year-old US compatriot Nico Young followed him over the finish line in a US collegiate record of 26:52.72 and the next six were also under the Olympic entry standard.

Andreas Almgren ran a Swedish record of 26:52.87 to finish third, while Canada’s Mohammed Ahmed was fourth in 26:53.01, Eritrea’s Habtom Samuel was fifth in a PB of 26:53.84, Adriaan Wildschutt was sixth in a South African record of 26:55.54, USA’s Woody Kincaid was seventh in a PB of 26:57.57 and Kenya’s Edwin Kurgat was eighth in a PB of 26:57.66.

Saturday night’s races at The TEN in San Juan Capistrano, Calif., will play a significant role in determining who gets to represent the United States in the 10,000 meters at this summer’s Olympics in Paris. The 2024 Olympic auto standards are incredibly tough — only three Americans have ever run under the 27:00.00 men’s standard and only five Americans have hit the 30:40.00 women’s standard — and you can count the number of world-class track 10,000-meter races each year on one hand. That’s why Grant Fisher, Nico Young, Woody Kincaid, Joe Klecker, Abdihamid Nur, Alicia Monson, Karissa Schweizer, Emily Infeld, Weini Kelati, and many more will be heading to SoCal Saturday night.

Since its first edition in 2021, The TEN has become the place for Americans to run a fast 10,000. Fisher set the men’s American record here in 2022 while Monson set the women’s American record here in 2023 and will be looking to repeat the feat in 2024.

To watch the main events, you’ll have to stay up late — the top heat of the women’s 10,000 does not start until 11:58 p.m. ET with the men to follow at 12:35 a.m. ET. Before then, we’ll get appetizer with the men’s 1500 (10:05 p.m. ET), which features Olympic medalists Matthew Centrowitz and Evan Jager kicking off their 2024 seasons.

Matthew Centrowitz and Evan Jager have seen it all in running. They both graduated from high school in 2007 and made their first US teams as young guns — Jager as a 20-year-old in 2009, Centro at 21 in 2011. For much of the 2010s, they were among the very best in the world in their events, with Centro bringing home a gold medal from the 2016 Olympics and Jager a silver. Now Centro (34) and Jager (35) are the elder statesmen, trying to fend off a host of younger rivals and make one last Olympic team in Paris.

Both men will run their 2024 outdoor openers in the 1500 on Saturday (Centro did run a 3:59 indoor mile on January 27 while Jager ran the first 4k of a 5k in Boston on February 16 before dropping out). Which means it’s time for one of our favorite games: how fast (or slow) will Centro run?

Throughout his career, Centrowitz has established himself as one of America’s greatest ever milers by delivering when it counts. He made every US team from 2011 through 2021 and won three outdoor medals as well as the 2016 World Indoor title. Yet in the latter years of his career, Centro thrown out some stinkers to begin his seasons before working his way into shape. In 2021, he opened with a 3:40 1500 on March 6 followed by a 1:50 800 on April 10 but ended the year running a 3:49 mile and making the Olympic team. Last year, he went to Australia and ran 1:56 for 800 on February 11 and 4:06 for the mile on February 23 but was running 3:36 for 1500 by May and eventually made the US final (though he only finished 10th).

So if Centro runs poorly here, it’s not cause for total panic. Heck, the fact that both he and Jager — who missed most of the 2023 campaign with a foot injury — are healthy enough to be racing is a promising sign. But the American 1500 scene is also more competitive than when Centro last made a team in 2021. Tactically, there is no better US racer than Centro, but he’s up against a group of young studs that includes three medalists from this year’s World Indoors (Yared Nuguse, Cole Hocker, Hobbs Kessler) and a trio of NCAA champions from the University of Washington (Luke Houser, Joe Waskom, Nathan Green). Nuguse is the oldest of that group at 24 — a full decade younger than Centro. Centrowitz is facing an uphill battle to make Olympic team #4 but if he can run 3:36 or 3:37 here and stay healthy for the next three months, he could still have a shot.

As far as the man most likely to win here, Sweden’s Samuel Pihlström ran 3:35 in February and just finished 8th at World Indoors.

Women’s 10,000 (11:58 p.m. ET): Alicia Monson tries to become the first US woman under 30:00 as Karissa Schweizer returns.

Unlike almost every other athlete in this meet, Alicia Monson already has the Olympic standard thanks to the 30:03 American record she ran here last year. So why is she back for another crack?

Monson laid it all out in an interview with LetsRun.com back in December:

Basically, it was just what can we do that would make me feel the most ready for the Olympics? And I feel like that’s running a sub-30:00 10k. I guess the plan would be to break the American record again, but really it’s how fast can I run to feel the most prepared? Because obviously I’m running against people who can run very fast and [I need to] be prepared to run at a pace that feels easy to them and then kick off of it.

Monson was still with the leaders at the bell at last year’s World Championships and her 5th-place finish was the best of her career in a global final. But she finished nearly four seconds out of the medals and the competition will be fierce in Paris. The last three global 10k champions — Sifan Hassan (29:06 pb), Letesenbet Gidey (29:01 pb), and Gudaf Tsegay (29:29 pb) — occupy three of the top four spots on the all-time 10,000m list. The slowest of them, Tsegay, still has a pb 34 seconds faster than Monson’s.

INDIANAPOLIS — Bettering her own American record* in the women's mile, Elle St. Pierre (Enosburg, Vermont/USATF New England) earned recognition as the 5th USATF Athlete of the Week award winner for 2024.In only her second track race since giving birth to a son last March, St. Pierre clipped almost a half-second off her own AR in the mile to win the Millrose Games in 4:16.41. She became the third fastest woman ever and her en route 1500 time of 4:00.34 puts her second on the all-time U.S. indoor performer list.St. Pierre, the 2022 World Indoor Championships silver medalist in the 3000 and an Olympian at Tokyo in the 1500, beat a star-studded field at Millrose, making a strong move with 300 to go to pass Australia's Jessica Hull and take the lead. Her final quarter-mile of 61.33 put away a group of women who behind her set four national records and eight lifetime bests. Other top performances from last week:

Grant Fisher lowered the American best in the men's 2 mile with an 8:03.62 to place second at the Millrose Games. He is now the No. 3 all-time world performer. En route, his 7:30.88 for 3000 moved him to No. 3 on the all-time U.S. performer list.

Alicia Monson lowered the American best in the women's 2 mile at the Millrose Games, placing third in 9:09.70. She is now the No. 5 all-time world performer.

Yared Nuguse won the men's mile at the Millrose Games in 3:47.83, the third fastest time ever indoors, and the second fastest by an American. His en route 3:33.43 for 1500 was the third fastest ever by an American.

Brandon Miller won the men's 600 at the Kirby Elite meet in Albuquerque in 1:14.03, making him the No. 2 all-time world performer.

Nia Akins won the women's 600 at the Kirby Elite meet in Albuquerque in a world-leading 1:24.32 to move to No. 8 on the all-time world performer list.

Grant Holloway continued his 10-year winning streak in the men's 60H with a 7.32 at the Liévin World Indoor Tour - Gold meet in France. He tied the fourth-fastest time ever and only one man besides him has ever run faster.

*All records subject to verification by the USATF Records Committee. Now in its 23nd year, USATF’s Athlete of the Week program is designed to recognize outstanding performers at all levels of the sport. USATF names a new honoree each week when there are high-level competitions and features the athlete on USATF.org. Selections are based on top performances and results from the previous week.2024 Winners: January 17, Weini Kelati; January 24, Cooper Teare; January 31, Nico Young; February 7, Fiona O'Keeffe; February 14, Elle St. Pierre.

Great Britain's Josh Kerr broke Mo Farah's world two-mile indoor record as he won at the Millrose Games in New York.

World 1500m gold medallist Kerr ran eight minutes 0.67 seconds to beat Farah's mark of 8:03.40 from 2015.

"It was always going to be really tough, small margins," Kerr, 26, said.

Kerr's fellow Scot Laura Muir set a new British indoor record as she won the women's two-mile race after Ethiopia's Medina Eisa was disqualified.

Eisa was first home in New York but cut in too early on the opening lap.

Muir, 30, was promoted from second to first after finishing in nine minutes and 4.84 seconds.

The Olympic 1500m silver medallist, who won the Wanamaker Mile at last year's Millrose Games, will look to win the world indoor title in Glasgow next month.

In the men's two-mile race, Kerr charged at the finish to defeat Grant Fisher, who set an American national record of 8:03.62.

Farah set the previous world indoor best at Birmingham nine years ago.

"I had to roll with the punches at the start of my career - pretty good but not world class," said Kerr. 

"And then to be world class and now world champion... I'm having fun with it, creating big goals to get myself out the door and prove I'm not all talk."

Scottish middle-distance runner Josh Kerr is not focusing on Jakob Ingebrigtsen's comments about him as he is eyeing another major assignment where he will attempt to attack the two-mile world record.

Reigning World 1500m champion Josh Kerr is not focusing on track rival Jakob Ingebrigtsen’s sentiments as he gears up for the Millrose Games on Sunday, February 11.

Kerr and Ingebrigtsen started their beef last year after the World Championships in Budapest, Hungary where the Scottish man bet the Norwegian to second place in the 1500m.

Kerr then rekindled the beef saying that Ingebrigtsen has a lot to work on when it comes to his manners on and off the track.

The Scot emphasised that the Norwegian has a “high ego” and is used to being surrounded by “yes men”, making it difficult for him to understand that there is a difference between respect and antipathy.

The reigning World 5000m champion, Ingebrigtsen has been out of competition due to an injury and he just made a comeback to the limelight announcing that he is expecting a child with his wife.

As per Letsrun.com, Ingebrigtsen also addressed Kerr, noting that he thinks the latter is just looking for attention ahead of the Olympic Games in Paris, France.

He said: “I realized that there was “something,” but I can’t quite say what it was. Let’s call it a desperate attempt. And I don’t think that was so smart. It might look silly at some point.”

However, Kerr seems unshaken by his sentiments and he is firmly eyeing his next assignment where he intends to make history.

He will tackle the two miles with Mo Farah’s world record of 8:03.40 in his sights. Kerr will be up against US 5000m and 10,000m record-holder Grant Fisher and Olympic 1500m sixth-placer Cole Hocker, New Zealander Geordie Beamish, and former US 1500m champion Cooper Teare.

“In February, I’m still coming off really high base training and I still want to be toward 5000m at that time of year. A two-mile just fits in perfectly where it is a bit speedier, but it’s not the mile,” he said as per Athletics Weekly.

The 116th Millrose Games is now just 19 days away, as the eyes of the global athletics community will once again return to the Nike Track & Field Center at The Armory. As always, the meet will conclude with the NYRR Men’s Wanamaker Mile, a legendary race with over a century of tradition.

The Millrose Games is scheduled to take place on Sunday, February 11th.

Previously announced as the headliner for this race is defending champion Yared Nuguese, the American record holder in the mile indoors and outdoors. Nuguse has his eyes on the world record of 3:47.01, but he will have to contend with a number of the best athletes in the world if he is to win his second straight Wanamaker title, including two additional 1500m finalists from last summer’s World Championships.

“[The world record] feels like a goal that’s within my grasp of achieving.” said Nuguse. “Not only am I stronger and smarter than I was last year, but I feel like I will be able to attack this race with a lot more confidence to chase the world record. When I went to Millrose for the first time, I was just chasing the American record. So changing that mindset, just seeing how far I’ve come, it feels like a very real possibility at this point.”

The elite athletes lining up to challenge Nuguse are as follows:

-Mario Garcia Romo was last year’s runner-up, and he is the 2022 1500m champion for Spain and a two-time World Championship finalist.

-Neil Gourley is a three-time British 1500m champion, and he holds the European indoor mile record.

-George Mills placed third in the mile at the Diamond League final, moving up to third on the all-time British list, before also placing second at the NYRR 5th Avenue Mile.

-Hobbs Kessler is the reigning World Road Mile champion, and he also holds the national high school indoor mile record.

-Andrew Coscoran is an Olympian and the Irish record holder over 1500m.

-Adam Spencer of the University of Wisconsin and Australia holds the NCAA 1500m record.

-Sam Prakel is the US Road Mile champion, and he placed fourth nationally in the 1500m.

-Charles Philibert-Thiboutot is a Canadian Olympian and the 2023 NACAC 1500m champion.

The winner of the mile at the Dr. Sander Invitational this Saturday, January 27th will be added to the NYRR Wanamaker Mile field as well.

Stay tuned over the coming weeks before the 116th Millrose Games, as the world-class start lists are finalized. Top athletes already confirmed to compete include Laura Muir, Elle Purrier-St. Pierre, Dina Asher-Smith, Julien Alfred, Alicia Monson, Grant Fisher, Danielle Williams, Josh Kerr, Cooper Teare, Yaroslava Mahuchikh, Christian Coleman, Andre De Grasse, Nia Ali, Chris Nilsen, and KC Lightfoot, with even more Olympians and World Championship medalists still to come.

As always, the Millrose Games will feature the absolute best athletes in the sport, including dozens of Olympians and world champions. The Millrose Games is a World Athletics Indoor Tour Gold meet. With highest-level competition at the youth, high school, collegiate, club, and professional levels, there is truly something for everyone at the Millrose Games. 

Tickets can be purchased at https://www.millrosegames.org/ 

Weini Kelati and Cooper Teare earned convincing victories at the 2024 USATF Cross Country Championships, held on Saturday at Pole Green Park in Mechanicsville, Va. Running just six days after setting an American record in the half marathon in Houston, Kelati took off just after 4k and destroyed the field, running 32:58.6 for the 10k course to win by 37.3 seconds — the largest margin of victory since Aliphine Tuliamuk‘s 48.2 in 2017.

Teare took a different approach, staying patient as former University of Colorado runner turned Olympic triathlete Morgan Pearson pushed the pace during the second half of the race. Teare was the only one to go with Pearson’s move at 8k and made a strong move of his own at 9k that allowed him to cruise to victory in 29:06.5. 2020 champion Anthony Rotich of the US Army was 2nd in 29:11.6 as Pearson hung on for 4th. Teare’s training partner Cole Hocker was 12th in 29:52.3.

The top six finishers in each raced earned the right to represent Team USA at the World Cross Country Championships in Belgrade, Serbia, on March 30. Kelati’s coach/agent Stephen Haas told LetsRun last week that Kelati plans to run there while Teare’s agent Isaya Okwiya said Teare’s plans are still TBD.

High school junior Zariel Macchia of Shirley, N.Y., won the women’s U20 race in 20:31.0 for the 6k course; Macchia previously won the title as a freshman in 2022. Notre Dame freshman Kevin Sanchez won the men’s U20 title in 24:07.1 for the 8k course.

Cooper Teare shows his range with impressive victory

Teare was the 2021 NCAA 5,000m champion at the University of Oregon and has shown that his range extends both up and down the distance spectrum. Teare is the NCAA mile record holder at 3:50.39 and was the 2022 US champion at 1500 and now he is the US cross country champion. That sort of range has become increasingly common on the international level but in the US, it’s rare for a 1500 guy to run USA XC, let alone win it. Teare is the first man to win US titles at both 1500 meters and cross country since John Mason in 1968, and even that comes with a caveat as the US championships were separate from the Olympic Trials back then. Before Mason, the last guy to win both was Abel Kiviat (cross country in 1913, US mile title in 1914). You all remember him.

On the women’s side, Shelby Houlihan, since banned for a doping violation, won USA XC and the US 1500 title back in 2019.

Teare’s coach Ben Thomas told Carrie Tollefson, who was calling the race for USATF.TV, that the aim of this race was just to see where his fitness was at against a top field. Clearly, it’s very good. In his first race since leaving the Bowerman Track Club after the 2023 season, Teare, wearing a bright pink undershirt beneath his Nike singlet, ran with the lead pack until Morgan Pearson began to string things out just before entering the final 2k loop. As opposed to Pearson, who was giving it all he could to drop the field, Teare looked relaxed and in control, and at 9k he eased past Pearson into the lead before dropping the hammer to win comfortably. It was a smart run and an impressive display of fitness.

Teare may also have slayed some demons from his last cross country race in 2021, when he crawled across the finish line in the final meters. Now he’s gone from 247th at NCAA XC to a national champion.

Teare’s plans for the rest of the winter are up in the air. He will run in a stacked 2-mile at Millrose on February 11 against the likes of Grant Fisher and Josh Kerr before competing at USA Indoors a week later. World Indoors could be an option if he makes the team — as could World XC, if he wants it. No matter what he chooses, Saturday’s run was a great way for Teare to kick off the Olympic year.

Weini Kelati demolishes the competition

On paper, Kelati, who runs for Under Armour’s Dark Sky Distance team in Flagstaff, was the class of this field. The only question was whether she would be recovered from racing hard at last weekend’s Houston Half Marathon, where she set the American record of 66:25. The answer was a definitive “yes” as Kelati, after running with the leaders for the first 4k, dropped a 3:05 5th kilometer to break open the field. From there, her lead would only grow to the finish line as she won by a massive 37.3 seconds over runner-up Emma Hurley.

Kelati was not at her best heading into last year’s World XC in Australia as she had missed some time in the buildup due to injury. She still managed to finish a respectable 21st overall. Her aims will be much higher for this year’s edition in Belgrade.

Kelati also made some history with her win today. She’s the first woman to win Foot Locker, NCAA, and USA cross country titles.

With just over three weeks to go until the running of the 116th Millrose Games, the excitement for this spectacular event has never been greater. One of the deepest races of the afternoon will be the Women’s 60 Meter Dash, which features no fewer than four Olympic medalists, in addition to an NCAA champion, last year’s runner-up, and more.

The 116th Millrose Games will take place at the Nike Track & Field Center at The Armory on Sunday, February 11th. 

The stellar field is as follows: 

-Dina Asher-Smith is the 2019 World Champion in the 200m. She is a two-time Olympic bronze medalist, and her 2019 gold is one of five World Championship medals that she owns. Asher-Smith holds the British records in the 60m, 100m, and 200m. 

“The Millrose Games is one of the most prestigious and historic indoor competitions in the USA, and I am looking forward to racing there for the first time,” said Asher-Smith. “I am really enjoying my new training set up in Austin, and I’m looking forward to a big year in 2024.” 

-Julien Alfred was a seven-time NCAA champion at the University of Texas. Her 60m best is not only the NCAA record, it also equals the North American record. In her first season as a professional, Alfred finished fifth in the 100m at the 2023 World Championships, representing St. Lucia. 

-English Gardner is an Olympic gold medalist on the 4x100m relay in 2016. A local favorite from New Jersey, she is the tenth-fastest woman in history in the 100m, and she won this race at the Millrose Games in 2019. 

-Briana Williams won Olympic gold on the 4x100m relay for Jamaica in 2021, and she is a two-time World Junior Champion. 

-Shashalee Forbes is an Olympic silver medalist on the 4x100m relay, and she won the 200m Jamaican championship in 2017. 

-Tamari Davis placed second in this race at last year’s Millrose Games, before winning a gold medal on the 4x100m relay at the World Championships. 

-Marybeth Sant-Price is the 60m bronze medalist at the 2022 World Indoor Championships. 

-Celera Barnes is an NACAC champion on the 4x100m relay. 

Stay tuned over the coming weeks before the 116th Millrose Games, as the world-class start lists are finalized. Top athletes already confirmed to compete include Laura Muir, Elle Purrier-St. Pierre, Yared Nuguse, Alicia Monson, Grant Fisher, Danielle Williams, Josh Kerr, Yaroslava Mahuchikh, Christian Coleman, Keni Harrison, Andre De Grasse, Nia Ali, Chris Nilsen, and KC Lightfoot, with even more Olympians and World Championship medalists still to come. 

As always, the Millrose Games will feature the absolute best athletes in the sport, including dozens of Olympians and world champions. The Millrose Games is a World Athletics Indoor Tour Gold meet. With highest-level competition at the youth, high school, collegiate, club, and professional levels, there is truly something for everyone at the Millrose Games. 

World indoor silver medalist Elle St Pierre set a meeting and North American record of 4:16.85 to win the Wanamaker Mile in 2020. The 2024 indoor season marks St Pierre’s return to the track following the birth of her first child.

Two-time world indoor silver medalist Axumawit Embaye is also in the line-up, alongside 2022 US 1500m champion Sinclaire Johnson, British 1500m champion Katie Snowden, 2023 Wanamaker Mile runner-up Josette Andrews, Australian record-holder Jessica Hull, Olympic finalist Marta Perez, and two-time NCAA champion Sage Hurta-Klecker.

Olympic 1500m silver medalist Laura Muir made her Wanamaker Mile debut last year, winning in 4:20.15. The 2022 world bronze medalist holds the British record for the distance outdoors with the 4:15.24 she clocked last year.

Other top athletes already confirmed to compete include Yaroslava Mahuchikh, Danielle Williams, Nia Ali, Andre De Grasse, Josh Kerr, Keni Harrison, Chris Nilsen, KC Lightfoot, Yared Nuguse, Alicia Monson, Grant Fisher and Christian Coleman.

Beatrice Chepkoech will be pitted against two Ethiopian youngsters in the women's 1500m at the ORLEN Copernicus Cup, a World Athletics Indoor Tour Gold meeting.

Ethiopian youngsters Diribe Welteji, and Freweyni Hailu will be up against Beatrice Chepkoech in the women’s 1500m field at the ORLEN Copernicus Cup, a World Athletics Indoor Tour Gold meeting, in Torun, Poland, on February 6.

21-year-old Welteji set a world record when winning the mile at the World Athletics Road Running Championships in Riga in October, as she clocked 4:20.98 as her compatriot Hailu finished second with Faith Kipyegon completing the podium.

Welteji and Hailu will team up again in Torun where they will be up against the world 3000m steeplechase record-holder Chepkoech. Other strong opponents in the field include Ethiopia’s world indoor 1500m bronze medallist Hirut Meshesha and Uganda’s 2019 world 800m champion Halimah Nakaayi.

Welteji has proven to be a master in the 1500m and she also doubles up as the World 1500m silver medallist, having finished runner-up to Kipyegon in Budapest in August. She will surely be the one to watch when the race begins.

Meshesha has the quickest short track PB of the quintet, having clocked 4:02.01 in Lievin last year, finishing second and one place ahead of Hailu who set a PB of 4:02.47. Chepkoech ran her national record of 4:02.09 in 2020.

Meanwhile, multiple US record-holder Grant Fisher will take on the already announced world champion Josh Kerr in the two-mile race at the Millrose Games, also a World Athletics Indoor Tour Gold event.

The race on February 11 is set to be paced with the world indoor two-mile best of 8:03.40 as the target. Joining them on the start line will be USA’s Joe Klecker, Cooper Teare, and Dylan Jacobs. New Zealand’s George Beamish, Australia’s Morgan McDonald, and Ky Robinson will also be in the mix and will be joined by Britain’s Matthew Stonier, Japan’s Keita Satoh, Ethiopia’s Samuel Firewu and Addisu Yihune, and Sam Parsons of Germany.

Last night was the deadline for athletes to declare their event for the 2023 U.S. Outdoor Track and Field Championships, which will take place in Eugene from July 6-9. At USAs, athletes are allowed to enter multiple events and then make a decision about which event(s) they wish to contest once entries are in, which allows those who’ve achieved multiple qualifiers to be strategic about where they want to concentrate their efforts. The top three in each event who meet the qualifying standards for the World Athletics Championships will go on to represent the United States in Budapest in August.

Reigning World champions have a “bye” to the next year’s Worlds, which means the country they represent gets to send four athletes, not three. Similarly, reigning Diamond League and World Athletics Continental Tour champs earn a bye, but if there is both a World and other champion in the same event, their country still only gets to send one extra athlete.

These complex rules lead many American World champions to make interesting choices about what events they wish to contest at USAs and how hard they want to push while still in the middle of the championship season.

MEN’S SPRINTS

– 100m world champion Fred Kerley has the bye to the world championships and will only run the 200m. Last year, he qualified for the World Championships in the 200m with a third place finish behind Noah Lyles and Erriyon Knighton. He injured his quad in the semifinal of the 200m and was unable to run the 4x100m relay for Team USA. Kerley has a season’s best of 19.92 from his win at the Doha Diamond League.

– 200m world champion Noah Lyles has the bye to the world championships and will only run the 100m. He ran a season's best of 9.95 in his outdoor opener in April. The last time he ran the 100m at a U.S. Championship, he finished seventh at the 2021 U.S. Olympic Trials final.

– 400m world champion Michael Norman is declared for the 100m and 200m at the U.S. Championships. He ran a wind-aided 10.02 (+3.0m/s wind) at the Mt. SAC Relays in April. He has not raced since a last place finish in the 200m at the Doha Diamond League in 20.65 on May 5.

WOMEN’S SPRINTS

– Sha’Carri Richardson is running the 100m and 200m. She is looking to qualify for her first World championship team. Her season’s best of 10.76 from her victory at the Doha Diamond League is the second-fastest performance in the world this year. Her season’s best of 22.07 from the Kip Keino Classic at altitude in Nairobi is No. 4 on the world list.

Only Gabby Thomas’ 22.05 from the Paris Diamond League is faster this year by an American woman. Richardson, the 2019 NCAA champion, attempted the double at USAs in both 2019 and 2022, where her highest finish was 8th in the 100m in 2019. She has yet to make a U.S. final in the 200m.

– Reigning U.S. champion Abby Steiner is only running the 200m despite qualifying in both the 100m and the 400m as well. She just ran her season’s best of 22.19 to win the NYC Grand Prix.

– As previously announced, 400m hurdles Olympic champion, World champion and world record holder Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone is running the flat 400m. She plans to make a decision after the U.S. Championships whether she will run the flat 400m (if she qualifies) or defend her 400m hurdles title in Budapest.

– NCAA record holder Britton Wilson, who ran 49.14 to become No. 4 on the U.S. all-time list, will only run the 400m and not the 400m hurdles. She hurdled at last year’s World championships and participated in the 4x400m relay.

MEN’S DISTANCE

– This year’s men’s steeplechase team should have a new look. 2016 Olympic silver medalist Evan Jager is not entered in the steeplechase. He has raced just once this outdoor season. Hillary Bor, the reigning U.S. champion who also owns the fastest steeplechase time by an American this year in 8:11.28, broke his foot earlier this spring and will miss the U.S. Championships. This is the first U.S. team he has missed since 2015. The top returner is Benard Keter, who made the Olympic team in 2021 and the World team in 2022, but he is only the fifth-fastest entrant by seed time.

– For the first time, 2021 U.S. 5000m champPaul Chelimo is entered in both the 5000m and the 10,000m. Chelimo, the 3x global medalist at 5000m, has typically only focused on the shorter event, but after his 27:12.73 performance at the Night of the 10,000m PBs in the U.K. earlier this season, he has decided to contest both events. He’s seeded No. 4 by qualifying time in both events behind Grant Fisher, Woody Kincaid, and Joe Klecker (all also double-entered).

WOMEN’S DISTANCE

– 800m Olympic and world champion Athing Mu entered the 1500m, as previously announced with coach Bobby Kersee. She has the bye to the world championships in the 800m. Her personal best of 4:16.06 is well outside the automatic standard of 4:05.00 and was achieved outside the qualifying window for the championships, but USATF rules allow for significant discretion in accepting entries from the Sports Committee chair.

– Josette Norris and On Athletics Club coach Dathan Ritzenhein have decided to focus solely on the 5000m. Norris ran 14:43.36 at Sound Running’s Track Fest in early May. That’s the second-fastest time by an American woman on the year behind her teammate and training partner Alicia Monson’s 14:34.88 at the Paris Diamond League. Monson is entered in both the 5000m and 10,000m after choosing to only contest the 10,000m last year.

– NC State’s NCAA record holder Katelyn Tuohy will only run the 5000m. Tuohy qualified for NCAAs in both the 1500m and the 5000m but ended up only running the 1500m after an uncharacteristically disappointing performance in the final.

– The Bowerman Track Club’s Elise Cranny has declared for the 1500m, 5000m and the 10,000m. The first round of the women’s 1500m is 19 minutes before the final of the 10,000m on Day 1 of the competition, so Cranny will likely scratch one or more events at a later point.

The 2023 season should be full of record-breaking performances from the sport’s biggest stars. Here are the most important things to know. 

Track is back, and if the results from the indoor season and early outdoor meets are any indication, it should be another year of eye-popping results around 400-meter ovals this summer.

Why is track and field relevant to the average recreational runner?

Perhaps you’re running some of the same distances in your training and racing. Or maybe you have a connection to some of the events from your youth, days in gym class or on the playground. From a human performance perspective, no sport showcases the all-out speed, red-line endurance, max power, dynamic agility, and meticulous bodily control as track and field does.

Here’s a primer on the most awe-inspiring athletes and events of this summer’s track season. Because, come on: with a sport that includes events as multifaceted as the pole vault, as primal as the shot put, and as wild as the 3,000-meter steeplechase—a 1.8-mile race with 28 fixed barriers to hurdle and seven water pits to jump—what’s not to like?

One of the many things that makes track and field so special is that it’s one of the most diverse sports on the planet, both culturally and athletically.

Last summer, athletes from a record 29 different countries earned medals in the 25 different running, jumping, and throwing events at the World Athletics Championships in Eugene, Oregon.

At the highest level, there are athletes of all shapes and sizes from every culture and socioeconomic background. While there certainly are racial and cultural stereotypes that need dissolving and vast inequality among competing countries, from a performance point of view the sport is largely meritocratic, based on the time or distance achieved in a given competition.

Watching American Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone masterfully win the 400-meter hurdles in a world-record time last summer in front of a deafening crowd at Hayward Field in Eugene was a riveting experience. It was vastly different than watching Grenada’s Anderson Peters win the javelin world title with a career-best throw of 90.54 meters on his final attempt to beat India’s Neeraj Chopra, but both had edge-of-your-seat excitement, athletic excellence, and cultural significance.

One of the knocks against track and field in recent years is that it hasn’t done enough to attract casual fans the way professional football, basketball, hockey, and soccer have. Following the On Track Fest, the USATF Los Angeles Grand Prix on May 26-27 in Los Angeles is trying to up the ante by combining a mix of elite-level competition, an interactive fan festival, and top-tier musical performances.

Billed as the one of the deepest track meets ever held on U.S. soil, it will feature a star-studded 400-meter face-off featuring Americans Michael Norman, the reigning world champion, and Kirani James, a three-time Olympic medalist from Grenada, and a women’s 100-meter hurdles clash with world champion Tobi Amusan of Nigeria, Olympic silver medalist Keni Harrison of the U.S., and Olympic gold medalist Jasmine Camacho-Quinn of Puerto Rico.

Saturday’s action will be broadcast live on NBC Sports from 4:30 P.M. to 6 P.M. ET and be followed by a concert event called the Legends Jam, which will include appearances from some legendary athletes and be headlined by Grammy-winning singer Judith Hill.

American sprint sensation Sha’Carri Richardson will be racing the 100-meter dash at the USATF Los Angeles Grand Prix. You probably remember her for her perceived failures more than the astounding times she’s actually achieved on the track.

Two years ago, the sprinter from Dallas blew away the field in the 100-meter dash at the U.S. Olympic Trials with a 10.86 effort, but then she was famously suspended after testing positive for cannabis (which is on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s list of banned substances) and missed the Tokyo Olympics as a result. (She admitted using the drug to cope with the pressure of qualifying for the Olympics while also mourning the recent death of her biological mother.)

Then last year, despite strong early season performances, Richardson failed to make the finals of the 100-meter or 200-meter at the U.S. championships, so she missed out on running in the first world championships held on American soil.

This year, the 23-year-old sprinter appears to be locked in and better than ever, posting a world-leading 10.76 100-meter time on May 5 in Doha (she also ran an eye-popping 10.57 with an over-the-limit tailwind on April 9 in Florida) and posted the second-fastest time in the 200-meter (22.07) on May 13 at a meet in Kenya.

If she keeps it all together, expect Richardson to finally contend with elite Jamaican sprinters Shericka Jackson and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce in the 100 and 4×100-meter relay in August at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungary.

A few years ago, American sprinter Fred Kerley was on his way to becoming one of the world’s best 400-meter runners. But he wanted more than that. What he really had his heart set on was becoming the world’s fastest man, a moniker that goes with the most dominant sprinter in the 100-meter dash.

Ignoring doubters, Kerley retooled his training and earned the silver medal in the 100-meter at the Tokyo Olympics (.04 seconds behind Italy’s Marcell Jacobs) and then continued his ascent last year by winning the U.S. championships (in 9.76, the sixth-fastest time in history) and world championships (9.86).

The 28-year-old from San Antonio, Texas, also became one of just two other runners (along with American Michael Norman and South African Wayde van Niekerk) to ever run sub-10 seconds in the 100-meter, sub-20 seconds in the 200-meter, and sub-44 seconds in the 400-meter. So far this year, Kerley has two of the four fastest 100-meter times of the season, including a speedy 9.88 on May 21 in Japan.

After trading barbs on social media this spring, Kerley and Jacobs are expected to face off in an epic 100-meter showdown on May 28 at a Diamond League meet in Rabat, Morocco, marking the first time the Olympic gold medalist and the world champion in the men’s 100m face off since the 2012 Olympic final, when Jamaican Usain Bolt beat countryman Yohan Blake. American Trayvon Bromell, the silver medalist at last year’s world championships, is also in the field, so it should be an extraordinary tilt.

If you’re a gambler, bet on Kerley to win that one and eventually get close to Bolt’s 9.58 world record. (To do so, he’ll be running faster than 26 miles per hour!) But don’t count out Kenya’s Ferdinand Omanyala, the early world leader (9.84), or fellow American sub-9.9 guys Bromell, Norman, Christian Coleman, and Noah Lyles at the 2023 World Athletics Championships on August 20, in Budapest. Depending on which three Americans join Kerley (who has an automatic qualifier) at the world championships, it’s actually quite likely the U.S. could sweep the top four spots in the 100 in Budapest.

If you’ve ever wanted to see the world’s top track and field stars competing live in the U.S., this is the year to do it. The May 26-27 USATF Los Angeles Grand Prix meet and June 3-4 Portland Track Festival are part of what might be the mosst compelling outdoor track season ever held on U.S. soil.

If you’re looking for an athlete to marvel at, start with Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, the gold medalist in the 400-meter hurdles at the Olympics in 2021 and World Athletics Championships last summer. She’s been one of the sport’s rising stars since she was a teenager and yet she’s only 23. Her trajectory is still rising—especially since she moved to Los Angeles to train under coach Bob Kersee. Driven by her strong faith, McLaughlin-Levrone is the personification of hard work, grace and competitiveness.

This year she’ll temporarily step away from her primary event to show off her pure sprinting prowess when she opens her season in a “flat” 400-meter race at the Diamond League meet in Paris on June 9. Her personal best in the 400-meter is 50.07 seconds, set when she was a freshman at the University of Kentucky, but she clocked a speedy 50.68 while running over hurdles, en route to a world-record setting win at last summer’s world championships.

Her best 400-meter split as part of a 4×400-meter relay is 47.91, so it’s within reason to think she could be one of several runners to challenge the long-standing world record of 47.60 set in 1985 by East German Marita Koch. Because McLaughlin-Levrone has an automatic qualifier to the world championships in the 400-meter hurdles, she will likely run the open 400-meter at the U.S. championships and decide after the meet which one she’ll focus on.

American 800-meter ace Athing Mu has looked unbeatable for the past several years as she won Olympic gold in the event at the Tokyo Olympics and last year’s world championships. In fact, she has been unbeatable, having won 13 straight races since she dropped out of a mile race at the Millrose Games in January 2022. Going back to 2020 (when she was a senior in high school) and 2021 (during her one season at Texas A&M), she’s finished first in 51 of her past 53 races (relays included), with her only loss being a narrow runner-up finish to Kaelin Roberts in the 400-meter at the 2021 NCAA indoor championships.

Mu, who is also coached by Kersee and trains with McLaughlin-Levrone, seems to be the most likely athlete to challenge the women’s 800-meter world record of 1:53.28, set in 1983 by the Czech Republic’s Jarmila Kratochvílová. It’s the longest standing record in track and field, and only two runners have come within a second of it in the past 15 years. Her personal best of 1:55.04 is an American record and the eighth-fastest time in history. She’s still only 20 years old, so she has many years to keep improving and other historic opportunities ahead of her.

Mu said earlier this year she’d like to try a 400-800-meter double at an Olympics or world championships if the schedule permits—it’s only been done once successfully by Cuba’s Alberto Juantorena at the 1976 Games—but her coach has said she might attempt a 800-1,500-meter double next year at the Paris Olympics.

This year, Mu will run the 1,500 meters at the USATF Championships in July, but will likely defend her 800-meter title at the world championships in Budapest, as well as potentially running on the U.S. women’s 4×400-meter relay and the mixed-gender 4×400-meter relay (with McLaughlin-Levrone) for an opportunity to win three gold medals in a single championships.

With apologies to quarterback extraordinaire Patrick Mahomes, gymnastics all-arounder Simone Biles, and skiing superstar Mikela Shiffrin, pole vaulter Armand Duplantis just might be the most dynamically talented athlete in the world. That’s because he’s the world’s most dominant athlete (and has set six world records) in arguably the most demanding discipline, not only in track and field but quite possibly in any sport. No sport discipline involves such a dynamic combination of speed, power, precision and agility, and Duplantis, who is only 23, is already the greatest of all-time.

Prove me wrong or watch him set his latest world record (6.22 meters or 20 feet, 5 inches) at an indoor meet on February 25 in Clermont-Ferrand, France. That’s the equivalent of vaulting onto the roof of a two-story building, and in his case, often with room to spare.

Duplantis, who grew up in Lafayette, Louisiana, to athletic parents with Swedish and Finnish heritage, represents Sweden in international competitions. He started pole vaulting at age three, set his first of 11 age-group world-best marks at age seven, and won an NCAA title in 2019 as a freshman competing for LSU before turning pro.

All indications are that North Carolina State junior Katelyn Tuohy could become the next American running star. All she has done since she was young is win races and break records.

After winning the NCAA outdoor 5,000-meter a year ago, she won the NCAA cross country title in November. During the indoor track season this past winter, she set a new collegiate mile record (4:24.26) and won both the 3,000-meter and 5,000-meter title at the NCAA indoor championships in March. On May 7, the 21-year-old from Thiells, New York, broke the NCAA outdoor 5,000-meter record by 17 seconds, clocking 15:03.12 at the Sound Running On Track Fest.

Tuohy will be running both the 1,500-meter and 5,000-meter at the NCAA East Regional May 24-27 in Jacksonville, Florida, with the hopes of eventually advancing to the finals of both events at the June 7-10 NCAA Division I championship meet in Austin, Texas.

University of Arkansas junior Britton Wilson is a top collegiate star who is ready for prime time at the pro level. She won the 400-meter in a world-leading and collegiate record time of 49.13 in mid-May at the SEC Championships, where she also won the 400-meter hurdles (53.23) in a world-leading time. The 22-year-old from Richmond, Virginia, was the runner-up in the 400-meter hurdles at last year’s U.S. championships and fifth in the world championships, and could contend for a spot on Team USA in either event at the July 6-9 U.S. championships.

Kerley and Lyles are expected to square off in a 200-meter race at the USATF New York Grand Prix meet on June 24 at Icahn Stadium on Randall’s Island in New York City. There are also two high-level Puma American Track League meets in Tennessee—the Music City Track Carnival June 2 in Nashville and the Ed Murphey Classic August 4-5 in Memphis—and two Under Armour Sunset Tour meets organized by Sound Running on July 22 in Los Angeles and July 29 in Baltimore.

The best U.S. meet of the year, though, will be the USATF Outdoor Championships held July 6-9 in Eugene, Oregon, where American athletes will be vying for top-three finishes to earn a chance to compete for Team USA at the 2023 World Athletics Championships August 19-27 in Budapest.

The U.S. season will culminate with the September 16-17 Pre Classic in Eugene, Oregon, a two two-day meet that will double as the finals of the international Diamond League circuit and should include many of the top athletes who will be representing their countries in next summer’s Paris Olympics. (And if you want to see the country’s top high school athletes run unfathomable times for teenagers, check out the Brooks PR Invitational on June 14 in Seattle, Washington.)

At the June 2 Diamond League meet in Rome, Italy, the men’s field in the 5,000-meter run will have what might be the fastest field ever assembled, with 13 runners who have personal best times of 12:59 or faster.

The field will be headlined by Joshua Cheptegei of Uganda, who lowered the world record to 12:35.36 in Monaco three years ago. (That’s a pace of 4:03 per mile!). But it will also include Kenya’s Jacob Krop (12:45.71) and Nicholas Kipkorir (12:46.33), Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha (12:46.79), American Grant Fisher (12:46.79), Canadian Mohammed Ahmed (12:47.20), and Guatemalan-American Luis Grijalva (13:02.94), among others. With a big prize purse at stake and pacesetters ramping up the speed from the start, it should be a race for the ages.

The British and American records in the women’s 10,000 meters both went down late Saturday night in California as Eilish McColgan outdueled Alicia Monson over the final lap of The TEN in San Juan Capistrano. McColgan, the Commonwealth Games champion at 10,000 who is building up for her marathon debut in London on April 23, was only added to the field this week but felt confident in her fitness after five weeks of altitude training in Colorado. It proved an inspired decision as she ran 30:00.87 to narrowly break Paula Radcliffe’s British record of 30:01.09 set in August 2002.

A few seconds behind McColgan, Alicia Monson nabbed her second American record of 2023, running 30:03.82 to smash the previous record of 30:13.17 set by Molly Huddle in the 2016 Olympic final in Rio. Three weeks ago, Monson ran 8:25.05 at the Millrose Games to break the American indoor (and overall) record for 3,000 meters.

Both women were also safely under the 30:40 standard for the 2023 World Championships and 2024 Olympics on a good night for running fast (50-degree temps, still conditions).

Monson and her camp had billed the race as an American record attempt and they enlisted her On Athletics Club teammate Josette Andrews (a 14:51 5k runner) to handle pacing duties, along with Eleanor Fulton. When Andrews dropped out at 5k (15:09 for McColgan and Monson), they were actually a few seconds behind AR pace, but Monson took over and righted the ship, dropping the pace from 73-second laps to 72’s, then 71’s. By the bell, which Monson reached in the lead thanks to a 70.45 penultimate lap, the question was not whether the AR would go down, but whether either woman would break 30:00 – and of course, who would win the race?

McColgan, who had clung faithfully to Monson throughout the race, finally went wide on the backstraight of the bell lap and passed Monson, and the American had no response as McColgan powered to victory with a 64.87 last 400m. Monson could not match that speed, closing out her effort in 67.99, and though she did not win, her American record was very well-deserved after so much grinding from the front.

No one else earned the World/Olympic standard, but a trio of Americans earned big personal bests in 3rd-4th-5th. Running just her second 10k, 2021 NCAA 5k champ Elly Henes won the battle for 3rd in 30:48.26 to edge 2022 Worlds team member Natosha Rogers (30:48.69) as both women moved ahead of Emily Sisson (30:49.57) and Deena Kastor (30:50.32) into 6th and 7th on the all-time US list. Rogers’ Puma Elite teammate Fiona O’Keeffe also got a pb in 5th, running 30:55.05 to become the 11th American woman to go sub-31.

Results (Analysis at bottom)

1 Eilish McColgan Asics 30:00.86 #$WRLD

2 Alicia Monson On Athletics Club 30:03.82 #$WRLD

3 Elly Henes Adidas 30:48.26

4 Natosha Rogers Puma Elite 30:48.69

5 Fiona O’Keeffe Puma Elite 30:55.05

6 Laura Galvan Hoka 31:04.08

7 Dominique Scott Adidas 31:14.00

8 Carrie Verdon TEAM Boulder 31:52.94

9 Susanna Sullivan unattached 31:55.80

10 Amy Davis-Green Hansons-Brooks ODP 32:10.59

11 Katie Izzo Adidas 32:22.47

12 Jeralyn Poe Tracksmith 32:39.10

Men’s race

The men’s race came down to a battle of the last two US 10,000-meter champions: Woody Kincaid and Joe Klecker. Just as he did five weeks ago over 5,000 meters in Boston, Kincaid earned the victory, though he made his move slightly earlier this time around, taking the lead with 900m to run and holding off Klecker on the last lap, closing in 55.96 to Klecker’s 56.92 as Kincaid ran 27:06.37 to Klecker’s 27:07.57. Both men ran personal bests (they now sit #5 and #7 on the all-time US list) and both hit the 2023 World Championship standard of 27:10, but neither was able to earn the Olympic standard of 27:00.

Klecker and Kincaid both went in with the aim of hitting the Olympic standard and joining Grant Fisher, Galen Rupp, and Chris Solinsky as the only American members of the sub-27:00 club. Klecker’s OAC teammate Ollie Hoare was the main pacemaker (though there were several: Ehab El-Sandali, Amon Kemboi, and Athanas Kioko all helped out) and he took them through 5k in 13:35, at which point British Olympian Sam Atkin, running with the lead pack, surprisingly dropped out.

When Hoare stepped off after covering 6400m in 17:23.90 (27:11 pace), sub-27:00 was within striking distance. But Klecker, despite working hard, could not increase the pace, and Kincaid showed no interest in sharing the lead despite Klecker motioning for him to do so.

By a mile to go, Klecker and Kincaid had dropped everyone else, and Kincaid, sensing the World standard slipping away, hit the front with 900 to go. Klecker stuck right with him, however, and it wasn’t until the final turn that Kincaid was able to gain real separation as both men closed well to get under the World standard – though not the Olympic standard.

Kioko, who stayed in the race, was the best of the rest, running 27:23.84 for 3rd, holding off Conner Mantz, who ran 27:25.30 in the midst of his Boston Marathon buildup (just .07 off his personal best from this meet last year).

Results (analysis below results)  *Lap by lap splits

1 Woody Kincaid Nike 27:06.37 WRLD

2 Joe Klecker On Athletics Club 27:07.57 WRLD

3 Athanas Kioko pacer 27:23.84

4 Connor Mantz Nike 27:25.30

5 Jonas Raess On Athletics Club 27:26.40

6 Ren Tazawa Komazawa Univ 27:28.04

7 Nils Voigt Puma 27:30.01

8 Sam Chelagna US Army WCAP 27:38.02

9 Luis Grijalva Hoka 27:42.56

10 Alex Masai Hoka NAZ Elite 27:42.80

11 Wesley Kiptoo Hoka NAZ Elite 27:45.81

12 Ben Flanagan On Running 27:49.67

13 Kanta Shimizu Subaru 27:51.23

14 Benjamin Eidenschink unattached 27:51.74

15 Tatsuhiko Ito Honda 27:54.64

16 Aaron Bienenfeld unattached 27:55.96

17 Ahmed Muhumed unattached 27:56.99

18 Frank Lara Altra/Roots Running Project 28:00.75

19 Emmanuel Bor unattached 28:01.09

20 Alberto Gonzalez Mindez Guatemala 28:30.63

21 Zach Panning Hansons-Brooks ODP 28:35.52

Girma averaged 2:28 per kilometer over 3,000m to break Daniel Komen's world record, which has stood for 25 years.

All eyes at the World Athletics Indoor Tour meeting Hauts-de-France Pas-de-Calais in Lievin, France, were on Norway’s Jakob Ingebrigtsen in the men’s 1,500m, but Lamecha Girma of Ethiopia stole the show in the men’s 3,000m, setting a new world record of 7:23.81.

Girma smashed the 25-year-old indoor 3,000m record of Kenya’s Daniel Komen (7:24.90), which has stood since 1998. Girma’s time was so fast that even his pacemakers couldn’t keep up, dropping out of the race one mile in. World 1,500m bronze medalist Mohamed Katir of Spain held to Girma’s heels until the final lap, falling off for second in a European record of 7:24.68 (now the second fastest time in history).

To put Girma’s time in perspective, his pace over the 3,000m was two minutes and 28 seconds per kilometer and 3:58 per mile. Girma went through 1,500m in 3:42 and through 2,000m in a mind-boggling four minutes and 55 seconds. 

The U.S. 5,000m and 10,000m record holder Grant Fisher finished fifth with a new indoor 3,000m personal best of 7:35.82.

At the 2020 Olympics, Gimra won the silver medal in the 3,000m steeplechase with an 8:10.38 clocking, only behind Morocco’s Soufiane El Bakkali in 8:08.90. He followed his Olympic performance with a 2022 World Indoor Championship silver medal in the 3,000m in Belgrade, Serbia,  and another silver medal at the World Athletics Championships in his signature event, the 3,000m steeplechase.

Ingebrigtsen ended up setting a world lead and meeting record of 3:32.38 in the men’s 1,500m but ultimately missed his indoor world record of 3:30.60 that he aimed for.

Girma is also the Ethiopian national record holder in the 3,000m steeplechase and is listed as the 12th fastest of all time.

The Boston University Track & Tennis Center has been hosting meets for 20 years. In that time, it has seen collegiate records, American records, and two world records.Inarguably, it was BU’s fastest night in the men’s 3,000- and 5,000-meter runs. At 5:30 p.m. ET, Yared Nuguse ran 7:28.24 to break Galen Rupp’s 10-year-old American record in the 3,000. Nuguse’s time was also faster than the 7:28.48 outdoor record Grant Fisher set last summer in Monaco.

Barely two hours later, Woody Kincaid used a brilliant 26.27 final lap to run down Joe Klecker and win the men’s 5,000 in 12:51.61, shaving more than two seconds off Fisher’s American indoor record of 12:53.73 set on this track in 2022.

This time last year, no American had ever run 12:51, indoors or out. Now we have to debate whether it was even the best run by an American that day. Heady times for American distance running.

Nuguse and Kincaid weren’t the only men to run fast. Klecker’s 12:54.99 made him the 11th American under 13:00 and moved him to #4 on the combined US indoor/outdoor list. Sam Atkin, unsponsored a year ago, ran 7:31.97 to break Mo Farah’s British record (his time was faster than Farah’s 7:32.62 outdoor record, too). Northern Arizona’s Drew Bosley took almost two seconds off Nuguse’s collegiate record by running 7:36.42. And 19-year-old American Hobbs Kesslerran 7:39.00.

Any of those performances could have been a headline on another day. But tonight belonged to Nuguse and Kincaid, two record breakers entering new phases of their careers.

INDIANAPOLIS – As far as she is concerned, Dad is Dad. But every once in a while, Sophia Kennedy’s father comes up in conversation.

“Oh yeah, my dad ran professionally,” she says.

“Who’s your dad?”

“Bob Kennedy.”

After the oh-my-gosh replies, Sophia can’t help but smile.

“That always feels kind of cool.”

Also cool: Sophia Kennedy has qualified for both high school nationals in cross country, the Nike race Saturday at Portland, Ore., and Champs Sports (formerly Foot Locker and Eastbay) on Dec. 10 at San Diego. She is a senior at Park Tudor School in Indianapolis and has committed to Stanford.

For an American distance runner, being Bob Kennedy’s daughter is analogous to being an Obama sister entering politics or an actress whose father is Brad Pitt.  Comparisons are inevitable, and inevitably unfair.

Yet by now, 52-year-old father and 17-year-old daughter are so used to it, it is a source of amusement rather than pressure. No one will be another Bob Kennedy. His impact on track and field cannot be overstated.

The two-time Olympian won four NCAA titles while at Indiana University and became the first non-African to run 5,000 meters in less than 13 minutes. His 1998 American record at 3,000 meters, 7:30.84, has been lowered little (to 7:28.48 by Grant Fisher) despite a 24-year span and introduction of super-shoes.

Sophia did not have to follow in those spikesprints. Her twin brother, Marcus, is a soccer standout. No way Sophia was going that route. She was once a goalkeeper “because I was a liability on the soccer field.”

Sophia took ballet lessons, played the clarinet. Her mother, Melina, a former IU runner who once ran for mayor of Indianapolis, and father encouraged the twins to try everything.

“Ultimately, they choose their own passion,” the father said. “We were big on hopefully finding something. Because I think it’s important to life and growth to find something that interests you, whether you’re the best at it or just really enjoy it.”

For Sophia, that became running. She was among the best and really enjoyed it.

Her transformational moment came when she nearly won a two-mile race around school grounds as a fifth-grader. She was outkicked by a boy. Then “it was on,” her father said.

Sophia affiliated with a local club, the Carmel Distance Project, and began winning races. In age-group cross-country nationals, she was 32nd in 2016 and 11th in 2017.

She didn’t have to travel far for competition, either. The Kennedy and Farley families used to live on Pennsylvania Street in Indianapolis homes separated by 73rd Street. Sophia grew up playing with a future Park Tudor teammate, Gretchen Farley, who has also qualified for San Diego.

Bob Kennedy has characterized Farley, a 2:09/4:50 runner who competes in four sports, as “a super talent.”

Sophia said all her parents have ever asked is whatever she does, give it her all.

“My parents have made it super clear, if I’m ever not happy in the sport, I don’t have to keep running,” she said. “It’s just something I’ve come to love because I love the hard work and the opportunities that it brings and the people that I meet.”

Sophia’s progress has not gone uninterrupted.

After setting an Indiana indoor 3,200-meter record of 10:12.32 last Feb. 19, she developed a fever, then an injury. She tried to maintain fitness via cross-training and anti-gravity treadmill. In May, when she began state track qualifications in a sectional, it was her first running on the ground in six weeks.

Given all that, it was redemptive to finish second at state in 10:25.02, or two seconds behind champion Nicki Southerland. Sophia lowered that to a 10:20.13 two-mile in finishing eighth at the Brooks PR Invitational.

Sophia took a measured approach to this cross-country season. Her father has credited her high school coaches, Garrett Lawton and Ryan Ritz, with prioritizing long-term future over short-term success. Sophia does not exceed 40 miles a week, and sometimes runs as few as 30.

“The one thing I realized,” she said, “if I want to be successful, I need to be healthy this year.”

That has been manifested in what is arguably her best run of runs. In a span of six 5Ks over eight weeks – none of which she won – she clocked 17:10, 17:12, 17:25, 17:24, 17:11, 17:23. She was third at state, fifth at NXR Midwest and second at Champs Midwest.

Even her cautious father conceded the daughter is on a trajectory that will accelerate as her strength matches her aerobic capacity. Sophia’s VO2 max is 82. Bob Kennedy’s was 83.

“I’m a little biased. I think you’re going to see huge leaps,” he said.

Sophia has come along during an unprecedented era in Indiana. Not only did Addy Wiley set a national record for 1,600 meters last June, there have been opponents such as Lily Cridge, Southerland, Addison Knoblauch and Farley.

According to inccstats.com, Cridge, Southerland and Kennedy rank Nos. 1, 4 and 5, respectively, in Indiana cross-country over the past 40 years.

Sophia is not intimidated at national meets. She sees such competition regularly. At San Diego last December, she led through a 5:19 mile and finished seventh.

She became the first Indiana girl in 15 years to have four top-five finishes at state cross-country . . . but never has she been a state champion on grass or track.

“She’s generationally great, and hasn’t won one yet. That’s stunning to me,” said Scott Lidskin, who coached Westfield to four state titles in girls cross-country.

Sophia will be surrounded by talent at Stanford. She chose the Farm over Notre Dame, North Carolina State, Virginia and Colorado.

Stanford was 13th in NCAA cross-country with a roster of six sophomores and one freshman. The team did not include two 1:59 freshmen, Roisin Willis and Juliette Whittaker, who won gold and bronze medals in the 800 meters at the World Under-20 Championships. Nor did it include Irene Riggs, a 2023 recruit coming off a 16:02 that was the second-fastest 5K in high school cross country history.

Sophia Kennedy, taking cues from her parents, pleads patience.

“I don’t want to be just a really good freshman,” she said. “I want to be really good in four years and five years and 10 years.”

It is mildly disappointing to be without a state title in Indiana’s single-class system. To win state at 3,200 meters, for instance, she suggested it might take 9:50 to beat Cridge (10:03.16 PB) and win.

No high school girl has broken 9:50 in an outdoor two-mile. Three have done so indoors: Mary Cain, Natalie Cook, Sydney Thorvaldson.

“I’m not looking for these immediate responses in my high school career,” Sophia said. “I want to run better at Nike nationals than I would have at the state meet. I want to be strong for the spring and not get injured.”

And not get caught up in what Dad did, other than to have a long career in the long run.

The day before 50,000 runners cross the finish line in Central Park at the 2022 TCS New York City Marathon, some of America’s fastest pros did the same at the USATF 5K Road Championships — though the fastest of them all, men’s champion Abdihamid Nur, almost missed it. Despite a very late wrong turn, Nur, 24, won his first US title in a course record of 13:24 after kicking away from US steeplechase champion Hillary Bor (13:29) in the final mile.

On the women’s side, Weini Kelati rolled to her second straight title in 15:16, gapping the field thanks to a quick first mile and running unchallenged from there to lower her own course record of 15:18. The B.A.A.’s Erika Kemp (15:30) was second, improving on her 2021 finish by one place, while Emily Infeld (15:30) was third in her first race as a member of Team Boss. Both Kelati and Nur claimed $12,000 for the win.

Four thoughts from a beautiful morning for racing in New York.

Abdihamid Nur wins his first national title…but how the heck did he make a wrong turn 15 meters from the finish line?

It’s always tricky knowing who is in shape for this race as most pro runners aren’t in top shape in November. Based on 5k personal best and 2022 form, however, Abdihamid Nur should probably have been the favorite and he looked great throughout the race, hanging onto Hillary Bor early as Bor pushed the pace before making his move in Central Park and opening up a cushion.

That cushion would prove necessary. It’s not uncommon to see an athlete make a wrong turn when the lead vehicle pulls off the course near the finish line, but I can’t ever remember someone doing it as late in the race as Nur. The finish line was in clear sight and only about 15 meters away when Nur veered to the left and tried to follow the lead car. It was a chaotic sight.

"The finish line was right there, but I just knew it,” Nur said. “They told me to follow the car, so I didn’t know that the car wasn’t going to the finish line. I’m glad Hillary wasn’t too close, because it was a mistake I could afford.”

Chalk it up to a rookie mistake — this was Nur’s first road race as a pro.

Nur’s time of 13:24 was very quick considering the undulating New York course. He smashed Paul Chelimo‘s course record of 13:45 and was just four seconds off Ben True‘s American record of 13:20 from the 2017 B.A.A. 5K. Nur’s wrong turn definitely cost him a second or two, but he didn’t know if it cost him the record.

“Maybe, who knows?” Nur said. “But I’m still happy with the win.”

(Note: David Monti points out that Grant Fisher‘s 13:01 at the Diamond League 5k final in September is considered the American road record because it came on an irregular 563-meter track, though that record has yet to be ratified by USATF. As far as LetsRun is concerned, you shouldn’t be able to set a road record on a track so True still has the record.)

The win capped a banner year for Nur, who won a pair of NCAA titles indoors, set the collegiate 5k record, made the Worlds team outdoors, and signed a pro deal with Nike. He’s still based in Flagstaff and even though the NAU men have struggled more than usual this year, he’s predicting a national title for them and his former teammate Nico Young at the NCAA XC champs in Stillwater in two weeks.“Coach Smith’s gonna have them ready for NCAAs,” Nur said. “I think they’re going to win and my boy Nico’s going to take the individual title.”

Weini Kelati is never that far from fitness

If it seems like Weini Kelati is always in shape, that’s because it’s true. She took a month off after the track season, but returned to training in September and quickly found herself in good shape. Today she ran 15:16 to win by 14 seconds and break the course record by two seconds — one set by Kelati in this event last year.

“What’s interesting about my body is it’s just not hard to build,” Kelati said. “I can get in 10 days, 80% of my fitness.”

Kelati, 25, has already found a lot of success on the roads in her young pro career. With her cross country background (Foot Locker and NCAA champ) and front-running style, she seems a natural fit for the half and, eventually, full marathon, but so far she has yet to race beyond 10k. When will we see her in the half?

“I’m not sure how soon,” Kelati said. “But I’m looking forward [to it]?”

Could we see her in a half in 2023?

“Let’s see, I don’t know,” she said with a smile. “Maybe.”

What we know for sure is that Kelati is not done racing on the track. After just missing out on a spot at Worlds in 2022 (she was 4th in the 5,000, 5th in the 10,000 at USAs), Kelati wants to make the team next year.

“I’m really excited to run road races and half marathon and stuff, but I have unfinished business on the track and I want to clear it up first,” Kelati said.

Kelati also said that during her break from running this summer, she got the opportunity to see her mother for the first time since she defected from her native Eritrea in 2014. The two were able to visit Uganda together, where they spent three weeks together.

“We were both in shock,” Kelati said. “For a week, we couldn’t believe [it]. She just [kept] touching me like, I can’t believe this is real. We both cried happy tears in the airport.”

Though Kelati had been able to talk to her mother over the phone since her arrival in the US, their conversations were never very long. In Uganda, they made up for lost time, often staying up until 4 a.m. catching up on all they had missed in each other’s lives the last eight years.

“The first 14 days, we just talked,” Kelati said.

Kelati said she emerged from the trip feeling renewed.

“That makes me feel like it’s a new beginning, a fresh start for me,” Kelati said.

In the latest installment in one of the greatest seasons ever by an American distance runner, Grant Fisher ran 12:46.96 at the Memorial Van Damme Diamond League meet in Brussels on Friday to smash Bernard Lagat’s 11-year-old American 5,000-meter record of 12:53.60. Fisher was also in contention for his first Diamond League victory with 150 meters to go but had to settle for second as Kenya’s Jacob Krop, the Worlds silver medallist, pulled away to win in a world leading 12:45.71 (#6 all-time).

Fisher had near-perfect conditions to break the record. The temperature (low-70s) and wind (6 mph) were fine and wavelight technology was in play, but the most important ingredient was a trio of opponents committed to pushing the pace once the pacemakers dropped: Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha and Kenyans Krop and Daniel Ebenyo.

Kejelcha hit 3k in the lead at 7:41.74 (12:49 pace), by which point the four leaders had begun to separate. The gap between those four and the rest of the pack would only continue to grow as Krop took the lead with 1700 meters to go and kept his foot on the gas. Fisher, seeing Krop’s eagerness, was content to sit at the back of the group of four and get towed along to a fast time.

Just before three laps to go, Fisher went past a fading Kejelcha (who would end up dropping out) and moved into third. With a little bit more than 500 to go, a gap started to open up between Krop and Ebenyo and Fisher showed he had more in him as he went past Ebenyo and latched on to Krop. It was now a two-man affair.

Krop was keeping the pace scorching hot as the 4th to last lap was 61.43, the 3rd to last was 61.52 and the penultimate lap was 61.37. At the bell (11:47.9), it was clear Lagat’s American record was history. How fast could they go and who was going to emerge as the winner?

Fisher was ready to put up a fight but he was looking like a car with its engine maxxed out while Krop still looked incredibly smooth. Ultimately Krop broke Fisher with 100m to go to cap a 57.75 final lap (unofficially we had it 29.68, 28.06).

Fisher sprinted it in to finish just behind and break Bowerman Track Club Moh Ahmed’s 12:47.20 North American record in addition to obliterating Lagat’s AR. After running 12:53.73 for 5,000 indoors in February, 26:33.84 for 10,000 in March, and 7:28.48 for 3,000 in August, Fisher’s 12:46.96 tonight gives him four American records in a 2022 season that will go down as a year for the ages in the annals of American distance running.