Gebreselama and Fisher Highlight The TEN Sound Running with Record Breaking Performances

At the prestigious The TEN, a World Athletics Continental Tour Silver event held in San Juan Capistrano, California on Saturday (16), athletes from around the world gathered with aspirations of achieving the Olympic standards for Paris, set at 27:00.00 for men and 30:40.00 for women. This event not only served as a stage for athletic prowess but also made history, particularly in the women’s 10,000m race where Tsigie Gebreselama of Ethiopia shattered records and barriers alike.

Tsigie Gebreselama, a world cross country silver medallist, captured the women’s title with a groundbreaking performance of 29:48.34, engraving her name ninth on the world all-time list and becoming the first woman to break the 30-minute mark for the 10,000m on US soil. This achievement came on the heels of her personal best in the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon, showcasing her incredible form and versatility as an athlete. The race unfolded with Gebreselama initially shadowing USA’s Alicia Monson, before taking the lead as Monson struggled, eventually leading to her withdrawal from the race. The pursuit for the Olympic standard saw commendable efforts from USA’s Weini Kelati, Australia’s Lauren Ryan, who set a new national record, and Britain’s Megan Keith, marking a successful debut in the 10,000m.

In the men’s category, the event was highlighted by one of the deepest fields in history, culminating in a thrilling finish by American Grant Fisher. Fisher, holding the North American record, surged ahead in the final stages to claim victory in 26:52.04. His performance underscored the depth of talent, as eight men finished under the 27:00.00 Olympic standard, making it one of the most competitive races outside the 2011 Pre Classic. Fisher’s victory, marked by a final lap sprint, was a strategic masterclass, positioning him as a strong contender for the Paris Olympics.

Nico Young, a rising star from Northern Arizona University, continued his impressive season by setting a new NCAA record and becoming the first collegian to dip under 27:00.00, showcasing the bright future of American long-distance running. The men’s race also saw national records and personal bests, underscoring the event's significance in the road to Paris.

• RESULTS

WOMEN'S PARIS 10000m RESULTS

MEN'S PARIS 10000m RESULTS