Olympic runners with Utah ties qualify for 2024 Paris Games

2024-07-04
Olympic runners with Utah ties qualify for 2024 Paris Games

Utah's Running Powerhouse: Olympians Emerge from the Beehive State

As the 2024 Paris Olympic Games draw near, the spotlight shines brightly on the Utah running community, which has produced an impressive contingent of athletes set to represent the United States. This remarkable concentration of talent is a testament to the state's growing reputation as a hub for elite-level running.

Unleashing Utah's Running Prowess on the World Stage

A Celebration of Homegrown Talent

The Utah running community recently gathered in Alpine to celebrate the remarkable achievements of its local athletes. Among the group of approximately 50 people, six individuals stood out as they prepare to don the red, white, and blue of Team USA at the upcoming Paris Olympics. What makes this gathering even more remarkable is that all six of these Olympians are runners, a testament to the state's burgeoning reputation as a breeding ground for world-class talent.Jared Ward, a co-founder of the Run Elite Program, expressed his pride in the impressive athletes assembled, stating, "We have a lot of impressive athletes here." This sentiment was echoed by Courtney Wayment, a Davis High School graduate and four-time national champion during her time at Brigham Young University, who qualified for the U.S. Olympic Team in the Steeplechase. Wayment remarked on the palpable sense of community and support, saying, "It is very special. There is a lot of love and there is a lot of support. There is a lot of genuine excitement here."

The Run Elite Program: Fueling Utah's Running Renaissance

The Run Elite Program, a relatively new initiative in the state, has played a pivotal role in attracting and retaining high-level runners in Utah. Wayment, who is part of this program, acknowledged the importance of having a supportive network, stating, "When you do something like that, you know you are not doing it alone. It takes a village."Ward, an Olympian himself, helped establish the Run Elite Program nearly three years ago. His vision has already borne fruit, as evidenced by the impressive number of Olympians the program has helped qualify for the Paris Games. "It is way more than I envisioned," Ward said, crediting the talented athletes and dedicated coaches for the program's success. "Hopefully, there is some correlation, but these athletes are impressive athletes, and the coaches are great. We are just trying to dump a little fuel on the fire."

Attracting Top Talent to the Beehive State

The Run Elite Program's impact extends beyond just supporting local athletes. It has also played a role in luring top talent to Utah, as exemplified by the case of Grant Fisher. The Michigan native recently moved to Utah last December to join the program, and his decision has already paid dividends. Fisher, who qualified for the 5000m and 10,000m events in Paris, expressed his gratitude for the welcoming community, saying, "They have kind of embraced me with open arms and it has been really, really fun. You kind of have an instant community, instant friends, and instant people to run with."The program's ability to foster a sense of community and provide a supportive environment has been a key factor in its success. James Corrigan, a BYU alumnus who qualified for the Olympic Steeplechase, echoed this sentiment, stating, "You can't ask for better teammates, can't ask for better mentors and people to look up to. I am relieved I made it, and I think there was just so much riding in that race. I know I had the best support team around me."

A Statewide Effort to Nurture Running Excellence

The Run Elite Program's success is not solely the result of its own efforts. The Utah Legislature has played a crucial role in supporting the team, approving 0,000 in taxpayer money annually to help fund the program's travel, training, and living expenses. In return, the team members speak at schools across the state, inspiring students to pursue their dreams and work hard.The program's partnership with Intermountain Health has also been instrumental in providing athletes with access to a wide range of medical professionals, from sports psychologists and nutritionists to rehabilitation specialists. This comprehensive support system has undoubtedly contributed to the athletes' success and the program's overall impact.As the world turns its attention to the 2024 Paris Olympics, the Utah running community is poised to make a significant impact. Wayment's words capture the sentiment of the moment, "Yeah, I definitely think people are starting to catch on that Utah is an incredible place. There is a lot of celebrating right now for us, but now it is time to get locked down and refocus. The Olympics are coming up fast."

Article "tagged" as:

Related Article

6 Sustainable and Healthy Fish to Eat (And 4 Types to Avoid)

6 Sustainable and Healthy Fish to Eat (And 4 Types to Avoid)

Here's the scoop on the best sustainable and healthy fish to eat regularly according to experts and a few fish types they recommend you avoid.
16 Pumpkin Pie Recipes to Make for Thanksgiving

16 Pumpkin Pie Recipes to Make for Thanksgiving

From traditional pumpkin pie recipes to elegant and creative variations (such as pumpkin pie pudding, cheesecake, and cupcakes), these scrumptious pumpkin pies will make your Thanksgiving holiday dessert a smashing success.
14 Easy Slow Cooker Appetizers that Make Entertaining Low Stress

14 Easy Slow Cooker Appetizers that Make Entertaining Low Stress

These holiday slow cooker appetizers will hit the spot for every guest. Our recipes include sliders, dips, fondue, and more!
Godzilla Roll Sushi Bake

Godzilla Roll Sushi Bake

This sushi bake recipe makes your favorite sushi roll a breeze to make. Get the delicious taste with half the work by following our Godzilla Roll Sushi Bake recipe.
Indian Masala Chili

Indian Masala Chili

Indian Masala Chili
How to Make a Smoothie from Your Favorite Fresh Ingredients

How to Make a Smoothie from Your Favorite Fresh Ingredients

Learn how to make a smoothie with your favorite fruits, veggies, and dairy or non-dairy products. Skip the pricey juice bar or bottled options.
Make-Ahead Mini Cheese Balls

Make-Ahead Mini Cheese Balls

Once you learn how to make cheese balls that you can customize—and then freeze for up to three months—you'll never host a party without them! Depending on which cheese ball seasoning you choose, this make-ahead cheese ball recipe can fit any season or color palette.
Eggplant "Meat" Balls with Chimichurri

Eggplant "Meat" Balls with Chimichurri

Enjoy these plant-based meatballs for your next meatless dinner.
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Grinders

Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Grinders

Make hot Italian sausage subs for a crowd with this easy slow cooker sandwich recipe. This easy Italian sandwich recipe makes enough meat for 12 subs, so it's great for a party or potluck.
Low-Sugar Chocolate Chip Zucchini Muffins

Low-Sugar Chocolate Chip Zucchini Muffins

Enjoy these moist healthy muffins for breakfast or with your afternoon tea.
How an Orchestra Orchestrates a Live Journey Through a Video Game

How an Orchestra Orchestrates a Live Journey Through a Video Game

A controller will direct a conductor's baton during Journey's live performances at the Brooklyn Acad
Fashion and Beauty: 3 Hottest summer nail colours

Fashion and Beauty: 3 Hottest summer nail colours

This article discusses the latest nail color trends for the summer season. It highlights three popul
Marni SS25 Collection: A Story of Fashion and Beauty

Marni SS25 Collection: A Story of Fashion and Beauty

The article explores how the "hero's journey" narrative structure is reflected in Marni's SS25 colle
Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2024 Makeup-Free Backstage Beauty With Tyra Banks & More Models

Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2024 Makeup-Free Backstage Beauty With Tyra Banks & More Models

The 2024 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show is making a highly anticipated return to New York City, feat
5 Video Games Based On Hit TV Shows

5 Video Games Based On Hit TV Shows

The article discusses the cross-pollination between entertainment mediums, focusing on the trend of
“Classic part of the game”: GTA 6 Fans Worry as They’ve Not Seen 1 Iconic Part of the Grand Theft Auto Franchise Yet, While Others Hope It’s Cut

“Classic part of the game”: GTA 6 Fans Worry as They’ve Not Seen 1 Iconic Part of the Grand Theft Auto Franchise Yet, While Others Hope It’s Cut

The article discusses the hype surrounding the highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6) and th
Spies, breakups and thick glasses: Philly’s Pig Iron obsesses over Aimee Mann in ‘Poor Judge

Spies, breakups and thick glasses: Philly’s Pig Iron obsesses over Aimee Mann in ‘Poor Judge

The article discusses a new theatrical production called "Poor Judge" by Pig Iron Theatre, which is
Weekend Entertainment Highlights: Lizzo, Diddy & More (November 30, 2024)

Weekend Entertainment Highlights: Lizzo, Diddy & More (November 30, 2024)

This text presents various news. Lizzo is on a weight loss journey and shows off her slimmer figure.
Skyline Chili voted ‘Best Regional Fast Food’ in US, according to new poll

Skyline Chili voted ‘Best Regional Fast Food’ in US, according to new poll

Skyline Chili, a beloved Cincinnati-based fast food chain, has been named the "Best Regional Fast Fo
Governor Gianforte Launches 4th State Agency Food Drive on 5th Day of Giving

Governor Gianforte Launches 4th State Agency Food Drive on 5th Day of Giving

The Governor's Office announced the fourth annual state agency food drive competition on December 6,