Team USA for the World Athletics Cross Country Championships in Belgrade features a blend of veterans and rising stars.
United States of America national cross-country champion Weini Kelati is at the forefront of a formidable 28-member US team poised to challenge the longstanding East African dominance at the World Athletics Cross Country Championships in Belgrade on March 30.
Alongside Pan-American U20 champion Ellie Shea, Kelati's remarkable achievements signal a potent US challenge that has been meticulously assembling.
13:33 - 28.03.2024
ATHLETICS Three important things you need to know about the World Cross Country Championships
Here is a list of three key things you should know about the upcoming World Cross-Country Championships.
Kelati's ascension to the team's lead was cemented with her overwhelming victory at the US Cross Country Championships earlier this year, where she clinched the senior women’s title by a staggering 37 seconds.
The 27-year-old's prowess was not just limited to national soil; her commendable 21st place at last year's World Cross in Bathurst and a seventh-place finish over 5km at the World Road Running Championships in Riga underscore her versatile talent.
However, it was her North American half marathon record of 1:06:25 set in Houston that truly underscored her potential to spearhead the US challenge
16:32 - 28.03.2024
ATHLETICS Why Faith Kipyegon, Sha'Carri Richardson and other top stars will miss the 2024 Kip Keino Classic
Here is why quality athletes like double world record holder Faith Kipyegon, and world 100m champion Sha'Carri Richardson will miss the Kip Keino Classic.
Joining Kelati in the senior women's roster are formidable athletes such as three-time NCAA steeplechase champion Allie Ostrander, ensuring a robust lineup capable of making significant inroads into the traditionally East African-dominated event.
The US senior men's team also boasts impressive credentials, led by Anthony Rotich, a three-time NCAA steeplechase champion.
With Emmanuel Bor and Reid Buchanan, both veterans of the World Cross in Bathurst, the team's depth and experience are evident.
15:53 - 28.03.2024
ATHLETICS Mary Moraa's track rival set to be featured in Channel 4 documentary ahead of Paris 2024 Olympics
Mary Moraa's chief rival is making global moves as she is among nine athletes set to be featured in a Channel 4 documentary ahead of the Olympic Games in Paris, France.
Ellie Shea, who played a pivotal role in securing a historic team bronze medal in the U20 women's race last year, is set to don the US vest again in Belgrade.
Her presence, along with that of Zariel Macchia and Allie Zealand, both team bronze medallists in Bathurst, adds significant strength to the youthful contingent.
Kole Mathison, another Bathurst team bronze medallist, returns to fortify the U20 men’s team, demonstrating the US's strategic investment in nurturing young talent for sustained competitive excellence.
10:11 - 28.03.2024
ATHLETICS Noah Lyles comments on Letsile Tebogo's form this season & breaking 300m world record
Triple World champion Noah Lyles believes Botswanan track star Letsile Tebogo still has some work to do if he has to be a force to reckon with in the 100m.
Leading the mixed relay team is Pan-American 5000m champion Kasey Knevelbaard, whose leadership will be crucial in navigating the challenges of a highly competitive field.
US team for Belgrade
Senior women: Katie Camarena, Emma Grace Hurley, Weini Kelati, Cailie Logue, Abby Nichols, Allie Ostrander
Senior men: Christian Allen, Emmanuel Bor, Reid Buchanan, Anthony Camerieri, Ahmed Muhumed, Anthony Rotich
U20 women: Mary Bonner Dalton, Maddie Gardiner, Zariel Macchia, Jolena Quarzo, Ellie Shea, Allie Zealand
U20 men: Noah Breker, Birhanu Harriman, Aidan Jones, Kole Mathison, Berkley Nance, Kevin Sanchez
Mixed relay: Ella Donaghu, Katie Izzo, Kasey Knevelbaard, John Reniewicki
Follow Pulse Sports on X (Twitter) for more updates.