In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Nikki Hiltz, an American transgender middle-distance runner, secured her spot in the 2024 Olympic Games. Her performance in the women’s 1,500-meter final was nothing short of record-breaking.
Hiltz crossed the finish line in first place, clocking in at 3:55.33 at the U.S. Olympic track & field trials, which took place at the University of Oregon’s Hayward Field. This impressive performance surpassed Elle St. Pierre’s 2021 U.S. trials record of 3:58:03 as reported by CBS News.
Hiltz, who uses they/them pronouns, expressed their joy in an Instagram post, describing the experience as a childhood dream come true. They expressed gratitude towards their supporters, stating, “I am incredibly thankful for my people, deeply touched by the love and support, and filled with joy to have the opportunity to compete with individuals whom I hold in high regard on the racetrack.”
This will mark the 29-year-old’s inaugural journey to the Olympics. Earlier this year, they achieved an impressive feat by winning a silver medal at the Indoor World Championships.
“I wanted to run this for my community,” Hiltz continued, “All of the LGBT folks, yeah, you guys brought me home that last hundred. I could just feel the love and support.”
Sunday’s race coincided with the final day of Pride Month, which made the moment even more meaningful for Hiltz. During a post-race interview with NBC Sports, Hiltz expressed that the achievement holds significance beyond personal success.
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