Professional runner Ben Preisner is making a comeback to the Canadian cross-country championships in London, Ont., this weekend after a hiatus since 2019. He is excited to add some excitement to his marathon training routine. Preisner is gearing up to face tough competition from notable athletes such as three-time U Sports champion Philippe Morneau-Cartier, as well as local favorites Phil Parrot-Migas and Connor Black, the reigning 2022 national champion.
Preisner is particularly intrigued by the late entry of Moh Ahmed, a highly decorated distance runner in Canada. Ahmed, who faced setbacks in the 2025 track season due to a left calf strain, is set to test his calf in the open men’s 10-kilometer race on Saturday at Fanshawe Golf Course. The challenging two km loop course features grassy terrain with rolling hills and technical elements like jumping over hay bales.
With his impressive track record, including being North America’s fastest runner in the 5,000 meters and winning an Olympic medal in 2021, Ahmed is expected to make a strong showing. Preisner acknowledges the level playing field that cross-country offers, noting that success on grass and mud can sometimes challenge even top track performers like Ahmed.
Preisner anticipates a competitive race on Saturday, with strategies playing a crucial role in the outcome. He believes that Ahmed’s presence will command respect on the course and could impact the tactical decisions made by other runners. A top-10 finish at the upcoming championships would qualify the runners for the World Athletics Cross Country Championships in Tallahassee, Fla., on Jan. 10.
Despite a long break from competitive racing, Ahmed’s former teammate Justyn Knight expresses confidence in Ahmed’s abilities. Preisner, on the other hand, is enjoying the opportunity to participate in a different style of racing and is looking forward to the challenge. As he aims for future marathon majors, Preisner sees the cross-country event as a valuable experience to gauge his strength and performance.