Moh Ahmed clinched his first Canadian senior grass track running title after dominating the open men’s 10-kilometre race at the cross-country nationals. The event took place on a snow-covered course at Fanshawe Golf Course in London, Ont., where Ahmed seized control two kilometers from the finish and crossed the line in 29 minutes and 30.4 seconds. Facing challenging conditions, Ahmed underscored the difference between cross-country and track running, emphasizing how the elements can pose formidable challenges.
Among the top finishers, Ahmed and eight others secured spots for the World Athletics Cross-Country Championships scheduled for January 10 in Tallahassee, Fla. Notably, Andy Wacker, who initially led the race, finished seventh but was ineligible for the championships as he represented the United States.
Athletics Canada later announced its 28-member team, with Ahmed headlining the senior men’s squad alongside Xavier Peras-Phaneuf, Santiago Gaitan, Matt Talbot, Evan Burke, and Philippe Morneau Cartier. Ahmed’s victory marked his first race since sustaining an injury at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. Despite battling various setbacks, Ahmed’s determination and resilience shone through as he claimed the well-deserved title.
Peras-Phaneuf, the runner-up in the men’s U20 race last year, closely followed Ahmed in the competition, finishing in 29 minutes and 46.1 seconds. Gaitan secured the third position with a time of 29 minutes and 48.2 seconds, showcasing his strong performance in the event.
Reflecting on the race, Ahmed acknowledged the tough competition and praised his fellow runners for their impressive performances. The event highlighted the talent and dedication of Canadian athletes in the field of distance running. With a history of notable achievements, including being North America’s fastest in the 5,000 meters and securing Canada’s first Olympic medal in the same discipline, Ahmed’s victory underscored his exceptional skill and commitment to the sport.
In a similar vein, Ceili McCabe from Vancouver made a triumphant return to competitive running by clinching the open women’s 10-kilometre race title. Her impressive performance at the national championships showcased her resilience and talent, marking a significant achievement in her career.
The upcoming Cross-Country Worlds in Tallahassee will feature a diverse array of athletes from over 60 countries, competing in various challenging terrains and obstacles. With the Canadian roster finalized for the prestigious event, the country is poised to showcase its talent and determination on the global stage.