Moh Ahmed has dedicated almost two decades to track competition but has always been fascinated by the camaraderie of cross-country running teams. During his junior year at the University of Wisconsin, the then 19-year-old Ahmed played a crucial role in helping the Badgers secure the 2011 NCAA championship and earned All-American honors four times.
Reflecting on his career, the now 35-year-old Ahmed highlighted the 2011 title as his most cherished achievement. In 2021, he made history by clinching Canada’s first Olympic 5,000-meter medal, securing a silver in Tokyo, following his world championship bronze two years prior.
While boasting a track record of five-time NCAA All-American and Big Ten outdoor conference champion in 2010 and 2012, Ahmed holds dear the memories of the 2011 season and the shared journey with his teammates. Inducted into the University of Wisconsin Hall of Fame in September, Ahmed is now leading Canada in the men’s senior 10-kilometer race at the World Athletics Cross-Country Championships in Tallahassee, Florida.
Joining Ahmed on the starting line are Xavier Perras-Phaneuf, Santiago Gaitan, Matt Talbot, Evan Burke, and Philippe Morneau-Cartier, following their finishing order at the national championships in London on November 29.
Live coverage of the World Athletics Cross-Country Championships from Tallahassee, Florida is available on CBC Gem and CBCSports.ca
The revamped course in Tallahassee will present challenges inspired by the city and state, featuring elements like sand, water, mud, and a simulated historic Florida Capitol building. The event will host 485 athletes from 52 countries, with races taking place at Apalachee Regional Park.
Canada has diverse representation across multiple categories, including the women’s senior 10 km, men’s U20 8 km, women’s U20 6 km, and mixed 4×2 km relay.
Results
Mixed 4×2 km relay — Foster Malleck, Jean-Simon Desgagnés, Kate Current, and Regan Yee secured the ninth spot in a competitive field, with Australia clinching the victory. This sets the stage for Malleck’s upcoming indoor season.
Women’s U20 6 km — Several Canadian athletes showcased impressive performances, with Marta Alemayo of Ethiopia emerging victorious.
Men’s U20 8 km — Frankline Kibet led a Kenyan medal sweep, with Canadian athletes delivering commendable performances.
Women’s senior 10 km — Agnes Ngetich of Kenya claimed the gold, with the Canadian women’s team displaying a strong performance.
The Canadian team aims to build on past successes, with high expectations for a competitive showing at the championships.
Ahmed and his team are prepared for the challenging course, embodying the spirit of Tallahassee and Florida. The event promises an exciting display of athleticism and determination.
Check out the <a href=”https://twitter.com/worldxcchamps?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw”>@worldxcchamps</a> course that will challenge runners in Tallahassee this Saturday!<a href=”https://twitter.com/hashtag/wxctallahassee26?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw”>#wxctallahassee26</a> <a href=”