Australian runner Jessica Stenson achieved a remarkable feat at the Daegu Marathon by surpassing the entry standard for the Paris 2024 Olympics women’s marathon. Just six months post giving birth to her second child, Stenson clocked a personal best time of 2:23:59, securing the fourth position in the race.
The 36-year-old athlete’s exceptional performance not only met the stringent Olympics qualifying time of 2:26:50 but also placed her alongside elite runners like Ethiopia’s Ruti Aga, Kenya’s Angela Tanui, and Evaline Chirchir who claimed the top podium spots at the Daegu Marathon.
Stenson’s previous personal best of 2:25:15 was set in 2021, showcasing her consistent improvement and dedication to the sport. Her illustrious career includes winning the women’s marathon gold at the Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham and representing Australia in the Olympics twice before, in London 2012 and Rio 2016.
Notably, Stenson joined a select group of Australian runners who surpassed the Paris Olympics entry standard, including Sinead Diver, Genevieve Gregson, Lisa Weightman, Izzi Batt-Doyle, and Eloise Wellings. However, with each national federation permitted to send a maximum of three athletes in the women’s marathon to the Paris 2024 Olympics, the final selection remains a competitive process.
While achieving the entry standard is a significant milestone, the ultimate decision on athlete selection for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games rests with the National Olympic Committees. The women’s marathon event is scheduled for August 11, offering Stenson and her fellow qualifiers an opportunity to showcase their prowess on the global stage.
Stenson’s inspiring journey from childbirth to breaking records exemplifies the resilience and determination of elite athletes. Her success in Daegu not only highlights her individual achievement but also underscores the fierce competition and dedication prevalent in the world of marathon running.
As the sporting world anticipates the Paris 2024 Olympics, Stenson’s performance serves as a testament to the unwavering spirit of athletes who continue to push boundaries and redefine what is possible in the realm of competitive sports.
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