Moh Ahmed, a seasoned track runner with seven Canadian senior titles spanning nearly two decades, secured his first grass title on Saturday. Making a highly anticipated comeback at the cross-country nationals, Ahmed surged ahead in the open men’s 10-kilometer race, taking the lead about two kilometers from the finish on a partly snow-covered course. He claimed victory in 29 minutes and 30.4 seconds at Fanshawe Golf Course in London, Ont.
Reflecting on the challenging conditions, Ahmed acknowledged the unpredictable nature of cross-country racing compared to track events. He highlighted the physical demands imposed by the elements, emphasizing the unique endurance required to navigate such terrains. This marked Ahmed’s first appearance at the event since finishing second in 2012 at Vancouver’s Jericho Beach Park.
Ahmed, along with eight other top performers, qualified for the World Athletics Cross-Country Championships scheduled for January 10 in Tallahassee, Fla. Notably, Andy Wacker, who initially led the race on Saturday, finished seventh but was ineligible for selection as he represented the United States.
In a subsequent announcement, Athletics Canada unveiled its 28-member team, naming Ahmed and five others to the senior men’s squad. Among the selected athletes are Xavier Peras-Phaneuf, Santiago Gaitan, Matt Talbot, Evan Burke, and Philippe Morneau Cartier.
This event marked Ahmed’s first race since withdrawing from the 10,000-meter final at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo due to a calf injury. Despite facing various setbacks, including injuries that sidelined him since August 2024, Ahmed showcased resilience in completing the challenging race in London.
Ahmed’s strategic approach and determination during the competition earned praise from fellow Canadian runner Kate Van Buskirk, who commended his tactical prowess and exceptional performance. Known for his impressive track record, Ahmed has achieved significant milestones in distance running, including being North America’s fastest 5,000-meter runner and securing Canada’s first Olympic medal in the event.
The article also highlighted the success of Vancouver’s Ceili McCabe in the open women’s 10-kilometer race, where she clinched her second national title in three years. McCabe’s dominant performance underscored her resilience after overcoming injury setbacks that disrupted her summer season.
Looking ahead, the cross-country worlds are set to return to Tallahassee, featuring a diverse lineup of athletes from over 60 countries. The upcoming races at Apalachee Regional Park will test competitors with challenging terrains and unique obstacles, promising an exciting and competitive event for participants and spectators alike. Canada will be well-represented across various categories at the championships, building on past successes and aiming for strong performances in the upcoming races.